Jay Longwell – Lead Guitar/Vocals

The Main Event is a vibrant musical collective based in Boise, Idaho, where a deep passion for music leads them down two distinct yet harmonious paths: Classic Rock and Rhythm & Blues.

Depending on the occasion, they can seamlessly shift between these genres or even blend them into a captivating fusion. The roots of Blues runs deep for this band. Before their formation in October 2021, the members were the core backing musicians for the RJ McGinnis Band, a beloved local Rhythm and Blues group.

As the summer of 2021 approached, RJ began to wind down the group, contemplating a potential move to another state. The RJ McGinnis Band had a busy schedule, even throughout the pandemic. So when the band members realized their weekends would soon be devoid of their cherished pastime—entertaining live audiences—they quickly decided to forge a new path and keep the momentum alive.

Classic Rock became the focal point of this new venture, as each member brought their own roots in the genre to the table. Drawing inspiration from legends like Elton John, The Black Crowes, Billy Idol, Dire Straits, Pink Floyd, and Tom Petty, they crafted electrifying setlists designed to keep patrons dancing.

However, as they progressed with their new musical direction, requests for Blues shows in the Treasure Valley were coming in from sources like the Boise Blues Society. As the band members also found themselves yearning to reconnect with Rhythm & Blues, the music they knew and loved, the dual-genre identity of the band was born.

As they continue to evolve, they eagerly explore new sounds and collaborations. Each show becomes a unique experience, blending the nostalgia of classic hits and/or the raw emotion of blues, ensuring that every audience member leaves with a smile and a story to share. Join us in celebrating the transformative power of music and the joy it brings to our lives, one unforgettable performance at a time.