Balancing multiple musical projects is no small feat, but Clayton Burke can make it seem almost effortless. For our interview he wore a denim shirt, one of his self-made bolo ties and he rolled his own cigarettes, a testament to his authenticity. Burke, a cornerstone of the Champaign-Urbana music scene, carves out his own artistic space, not just with his music and through his tangible art. His ability to seamlessly integrate these creative outlets speaks to his dedication and unique vision as an artist.
Burke, born with the last name “Deering”, prefers his middle name as his surname because it sounded more serious and fitting for his sometimes-somber tunes. Burke moved to Champaign-Urbana in 2007 with his friends Noah Stein and Cole Bridges, bringing with them a shared passion for music and a determination to make their mark. The trio quickly immersed themselves in the local music scene, collaborating with other musicians and participating in various projects together. Burke, who initially played slide guitar, soon found himself embracing the pedal steel guitar, a decision that would come to define his sound.
Burke’s decision to adopt the pedal steel guitar was driven by a desire to complement the superior songwriting and instrumental skills of his bandmates. This instrument, though demanding, opened new avenues for creative expression. Burke recounts how he bought his first pedal steel from Craigslist, fully aware of the immense practice and live performance time it would require. Yet, he found joy in the instrument’s intricacies and its ability to adapt to various musical styles. “Learning how to expect the unexpected and how to fit in with other folks,” he explains, underscores the collaborative spirit that defines his approach to music. This adaptability has made Burke a respected figure in the Champaign-Urbana scene, known for his versatility and commitment to his craft.
Initially reluctant to take up the instrument, he now considers the pedal steel guitar a defining part of his sound. “It is a commitment. I think that’s why you don’t see a ton of folks doing it,” he says, highlighting the challenges of mastering the instrument and integrating it into various musical contexts. The complexity and dedication required to play the pedal steel guitar have become a hallmark of Burke’s performances, adding a unique depth and texture to his music. His journey with the pedal steel reflects his broader approach to art — embracing challenges and pushing boundaries to create something truly distinctive.
Over the years, he has become a prolific figure in the local music scene, contributing to bands like Keith Hall and the Creeping Grass, Two Shoes (Emily McKown‘s band) as well as hauling his pedal steel around to play with other friends and fellow musicians throughout the scene. Playing with his own band, The Clayton Burke Band, Burke brings a unique blend of Americana, rock, and folk to the stage. The band’s music is characterized by heartfelt lyrics, intricate melodies, and a touch of theatricality. Their albums range from playful and cheeky to deeply emotional and introspective. His performances are known for their authenticity and emotional depth, capturing the essence of Burke’s musical journey and his connection to the C-U music scene.
Neon Gravel is another project of his that allows him to explore unconventional sounds, exemplified by his color noise series. “Some colors help with sleeping, some with focus,” he explained. By adding pedal steel in the background, Burke seamlessly blends his instrumental skills with experimental music. Committed to consistency, he strives to release a new Neon Gravel track every Friday on Bandcamp.
Burke’s artistry extends beyond music, finding expression in his handcrafted bolo ties. This creative outlet reflects his appreciation for tangible art and the physical process of making. “I like the physical nature of creating bolo ties,” he shared. Burke’s designs are influenced by a conscious effort to avoid cultural appropriation, focusing instead on innovative ideas and materials. He envisions crafting bolos from diverse materials and experimenting with various designs, stating, “I want to make wild bolos or things that stretch the idea of a bolo… to create something unique and respectful of its cultural origins.” Burke has even discussed collaborating with Doug from Uptown Concrete to use a specially-mixed concrete for his unique bolo tie designs.
One of the highlights of Burke’s involvement in the Champaign-Urbana music scene is hosting the Urbana Hootenanny bi-weekly at Rose Bowl Tavern. This weekly event is a vital platform for musicians, especially newer artists, to learn how to play with others and understand the unspoken cues musicians use on stage. “What makes it special to me is that it feels very community-based. There’s no sign-up sheet; you talk to the host, and they fit you into the night’s plan,” Burke shared. He emphasized the importance of this setup in teaching artists how to work together, anticipate musical changes, and communicate effectively on stage. “Not everyone has the opportunity to play with a band or learn these skills, and the Hootenanny provides that in a supportive environment,” he added.
Burke’s connection to the local music scene is also evident in his involvement with the Hogchute Opry, a fringe festival that offers smaller bands a festival setting. “It was just a sweet thing. It seemed like an answer for a lot of the bands that were either smaller or hard to put in a box for bigger festivals,” he said. The festival holds a special place in Burke’s heart, embodying the intimate yet vibrant spirit of the local music community. He appreciates the festival’s role in nurturing local talent and offering a stage for diverse musical expressions. “It’s far enough out there that you can get away, yet close enough to feel at home,” he remarked, highlighting the festival’s unique blend of seclusion and community.
The Clayton Burke Band’s albums, No Immediate Plans and Hokey Tonk, reflect his evolving musical style and diverse influences. “Hokey Tonk,” Burke describes, “was like a love letter for things I grew up with, combining theatric country themes with realism.” The album blends playful and theatrical country elements with authentic storytelling, creating a nostalgic yet fresh sound. In contrast, No Immediate Plans ventures into more experimental territory, showcasing Burke’s willingness to explore and push boundaries. Tracks like “Comin’ Up” and “Fishin'” blend darker themes with hokey, more-traditional country music elements, resulting in a unique and innovative musical experience. This album highlights Burke’s growth as an artist, demonstrating his ability to merge different genres and emotions into cohesive and compelling music.
Looking ahead, Burke is excited about his upcoming projects, including announcing a Neon Gravel release show and a 90’s Country DJ night at Bentley’s Pub. He’s playing the Blue Velvet Couch Series at Gallery Art Bar this Friday as well. His dedication to both music and art fuels his continuous exploration of new sounds and creative expressions, like his unique bolo ties. Burke’s path is defined by dedication and innovation, driven by his deep passion for his art. As he navigates his multiple roles, he remains a vital force in the music and art scene, inspiring others with his genuine and innovative spirit.
For more info, check Clayton’s Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, YouTube, and his Bandcamp pages for The Clayton Burke Band and Neon Gravel. Also check out Two Shoes (Emily McKown) and Keith Hall and the Creeping Grass.
Blue Velvet Couch Series featuring Clayton Deering (Burke), Rebekah Songer and Aubrie Powell
Gallery Art Bar
119 W Main St
Urbana
Friday, June 28th, 7 p.m.
Free
