The Family Heritage!
Exclusive interview on the history! From 1978 up till 1985 at The Grammys!
12/8/20242 min read
Dec. 8th
The Jersey Heritage
In 1985, The Brass Release, a well-known polka family band, earned a Grammy nomination in the polka category for their album The Brass with Class. The album’s recognition highlighted the group’s talent and influence in the genre. The lead drummer of The Brass Release, whose son would later rise to fame, sparked a legacy that transcended generations. That son, now an internationally recognized DJ, made waves in the music world, becoming a key figure in the entertainment industry. He gained notable exposure as a DJ on MTV's hit show Jersey Shore back in 2009, where his electrifying performances brought energy to audiences worldwide. His journey, deeply rooted in his family's musical heritage, inspired him to pursue a lifelong passion for music, uniting people from all walks of life through his beats and performances. Today, his influence continues to resonate in the global music scene, blending his family’s musical tradition with his own distinctive style.
The lead drummer of The Brass Release played a pivotal role in shaping the polka music scene, starting in 1978. Throughout his career, he worked with several prominent record companies, including Bernie Gordish of Lee Mann Records, based in the heart of Central New Jersey. The lead drummer's versatility and skill led him to fill in with many popular polka bands, gaining recognition both in the United States and worldwide. He collaborated with legendary artists such as Lil Wally, Joe Stanky and the Coal Miners, and Frank John Yankovic, contributing his drumming expertise to their success. This close-knit network of talented musicians would later see a historic milestone in 1985 when these bands, including The Brass Release, were all nominated for the first-ever Grammy Award in the newly established polka category. The nomination, which took place at the prestigious Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, marked a defining moment for the polka genre and solidified the legacy of the lead drummer’s contributions to the world of polka music.
