We had the good fortune of connecting with Wendell Perkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Wendell, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting a business was a risk. I decided to start my business because my previous job of 25 years was in the process of merging with another company. I was left without a job so I decided to step out on faith. I have not worked for anyone else for many years. I began my career in music by following my fathers footsteps. My dad had a band and he played the bass guitar. It sparked my interest and I had the desire to do the same. I started training to play the bass guitar at the age of 15. After learning how to play I decided to start a band that consist of my brothers. We stayed together for several years then I decided to train my boys for what would become the 3rdGeneration Band. Starting the 3rdGeneration band was very fulfilling because I realized I had started something that will carry on from generation to generation. The 4th Generation Band is already in the making!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Deeply rooted in three generations of musical talent, 3rd Generation Band CEO Wendell Perkins started his legacy by embracing his love for music and training his five boys to become professional musicians. The band has performed at many functions with a focus in Motown, Country, Top 40, Old School Funk, and many other genres.

The 3rd Generation Band is a premium 6-piece band specializing in high-energy music for festivals, weddings, corporate events, and private functions. We pride ourselves on having a “cooler-than-average” song list that is never dull and focuses squarely on filling your dance floor. With the 3rd Generation Band, you’ll get some of the best musicians in the R&B, Hip Hop, Old School, Funk, a little Rock, and Country.

It took a lot of sweat and dedication to build all of my businesses. It certainly was not an easy task. Music is a business that you have to be dedicated to and it takes a lot of time and commitment. In the music field traveling is a must that often comes with success. I bypassed the issue of keeping musicians for my band because my boys were always there so that I never had to worry about the true dedication that is needed for longevity. For my legacy I want the world to know I am a hard worker, I love God, and most importantly my family.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Downtown Montgomery, Alabama and the B.B. King’s Blues Club are places where I would take my best friend! We would start downtown to visit the many excellent places that Montgomery has to offer. One place in particular would be the Rosa Parks Library Museum. It is one of the most poignant Montgomery attraction. I like that the tour at the museum is self guided and it offers things to do with the small children as well. It is the only museum of its kind. How fascinating is that? Next, we would stop by the New Legacy Museum. It is certainly a must although it is an emotional and haunting experience it really depicts how slavery impacted Alabama. It is truly one of the best black history museum I have ever been to. After learning a little history why not eat dinner at my favorite spot the Wintzell’s Oyster House. It is the best seafood hands down. The Wintzell Oyster House also has a great bar setup. Happy hour is best time to drink as many beers and special drinks as you like.

After dinner I would stop by at the Renaissance to listen to Eric Perkins, my brother, who is singing and playing the keyboard. Lastly we would visit the New B.B. King’s Blues Club on the weekend. It has the best restaurant, bar, and live music all in one location. There is no way my best friend can leave Montgomery without a visit to the Wind Creek Casino. There is live entertainment and really great restaurants. I am not much of a gambler but I enjoy watching other folks play the slot machines. It is an excellent place to wind down and enjoy the night life. Sunday after visiting my church, around 5:00 it is time to sail on the Riverboat Harriett II. The boat has three decks of live music and great food. Deck two is where my heart is because Eric is there singing the blues!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to send a shoutout to my wife Valerie Perkins, and of course my five musical talented boys. Thanks Val for your commitment, love, and encouragement throughout this wonderful life we are journeying together. Thanks to Brandon, Irvin, Cameron, Terence, and Tyler for putting up with the long nights and very early mornings learning what was needed to emerge into the awesome 3rdGeneration Band!

Website: https://rayne6girl2.wixsite.com/3rdgenerationband

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valperkins49/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/3rdGenerationb2

Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088029726003

Yelp: 3rdGeneration Band: (334) 354-5914

Youtube: https://youtu.be/7aRNvOjdueo

Image Credits
Cameron Perkins

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