For a band that’s only been together for almost a year, the Blawgs have already started to make themselves known having won the Colton High talent show, but they’re ready to prove they’re more than just a garage band with big dreams.
Made up entirely of students, Dorian Rodriguez and Daniel “Rocky” Rodriguez on guitar, Jesse Ayala plays the bass while the Blawgs newest member Kaylee Ortiz Lemus working the drums Having taken inspiration from another indie rock/pop band known as “Hers” while also covering songs from other well known bands like “The Beatles” and “The Strokes”
Their name “The Blawgs” is a reference to an internet meme that instead of calling dogs, dogs they’d be referred to as “blawgs”. But the band is more than what they’re based on; they intertwine their own sense of soul into the music.
“The point isn’t to be like the original song.” says Jesse “It’s meant to be our version and our piece, and that’s what makes it special to us”
When they entered the talent show as just a three man band The Blawgs reasons were simple: experience and exposure. They want to get comfortable playing in front of people and perhaps improve their setup and winning gives them that extra jump they need to help buy better mics and equipment.
“Even if we don’t place high, it’s just good experience to have under our belt” Says Dorian
Dorian, Jesse, Rocky, and Kaylee aren’t strangers playing in front of crowds– all four being members of the CHS marching band and Dorian having placed second in last year’s talent show. And after their first performance the nerves have never been less of an issue.
Jesse says. “Wrong notes, playing wrong, rushing, dragging … it goes on, it definitely feels really anxious.”
Despite the jitters, The Blawgs are focused on teamwork and passion. “We’re not just like a band, we’re basically a team,” Jesse said. “These are my best friends, and I can trust them, and I can support them, and I think we all support each other.”
After having their debut performance, the Blawgs aren’t just chasing the rush of applause, they’re following the track of cadence.
