Charlie Mars Brings The Gulf Coast And Its Mainstays To The Masses With “Fat Dad”
Latest single from Mars’ upcoming album Times Have Changed, out October 6th
September 1, 2023 – Oxford, MS – The slinky guitars, can’t-help-but-dance rhythm section, and luscious, counterpoint harmonies are only a small part of what makes Charlie Mars’s new single “Fat Dad” the most uniquely catchy song this side of the Gulf Coast. And that’s saying something because the production is top-notch funky.
At the same time, “Fat Dad” is off the wall and wholly recognizable to anyone who’s spent any time in a Stateside beach town. “I was staying at a friend’s place on Highway 30A in Florida relaxing and writing some songs,” remembers Mars, a Mississippi-born-and-raised songwriter who’s spent more than enough time headed south for family vacations. “I saw this dude who was portly and had lots of style. His wife in the passenger’s seat was killing it. His two daughters in the back had on aviator sunglasses and looked like little baddies. I went home and wrote ‘Fat Dad.’” For a guy who grew up going to Destin, Florida, in his family station wagon, “Fat Dad” is the ultimate in observational songwriting, humor, and generally, having a good time. “This song is my ode to big boys and the people who love them—and lots of southern culture thrown in the mix.”
Fans can watch the accompanying music video for “Fat Dad” at this link.
“Fat Dad” is the latest song to be released from Mars’ upcoming album Times Have Changed—due out October 6th via Foxgate Records. Produced by Billy Harvey (Bob Schneider, Steve Poltz) and mixed by Tchad Blake (Sheryl Crow, the Black Keys) the 10 songs on Times Have Changed possess a lived-in quality, relatable because they express real experiences. Rooted in folk-pop, but nourished with country, soul, laid-back reggae grooves, and Mars’ love for the languid, understated style of producer Daniel Lanois’ Teatro-era work, they chronicle his path from a restless young wanderer seeking adventure, escape, love or truth, to the man who’s discovered that his road to happiness is a gravel drive leading to a porch perfect for viewing actual stars.
For more information or to preorder the album, please visit charliemars.com.
Catch Charlie Mars On Tour:
Oct. 5-8 – Opelika, AL – Opelika Songwriters Festival
Oct. 12 – Jackson, MS – Duling Hall
Oct. 13 – Nashville, TN – The Bluebird Cafe
Oct. 14 – Decatur, GA – Eddie’s Attic
Oct. 21 – Santa Rosa Beach, FL – The REP Theatre
Oct. 22 – Saint Augustine Beach, FL – Cafe Eleven
Nov. 11 – Easton, MD – Avalon Theatre
Nov. 13 – New York, NY – City Winery
Nov. 29 – Arlington Heights, IL – Hey Nonny
Nov. 30 – Madison, WI – The Bur Oak
Dec. 12 – Houston, TX – McGonigel’s Mucky Duck
Dec. 13 – Galveston, TX – Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe
Dec. 15 – Fort Worth, TX – The Post at River East
Dec. 16 – Austin, TX – Saxon Pub
More About Charlie Mars: Mars has released 7 studio albums, a series of EPs, and several singles over the past 20 years. He’s shared the stage with the likes of REM, KT Tunstall, Tedeschi Trucks, The Chicks, and Steve Earle, and has been profiled in Forbes, USA Today, American Songwriter, and many major media outlets. If you ask him, Mars says he’s made a living playing in small clubs and backyards. But he still wants to have a tour bus and play in front of big crowds. “It’s fun to have a dream. It keeps me going” he says. “I can’t believe I made it this far in music. I figure while I had the chance, I should try to represent the people and the culture that shaped me.”
