Drayton & the Dreamboats

Formed in 2014 by vocalist and violin virtuoso Drayton Aldridge, Drayton & The Dreamboats perform timeless music with the class and charisma to match. With a well-crafted mix of swing tunes, latin numbers, and vocal ballads from the golden age of radio, Drayton & The Dreamboats have captured the attention and imagination of fans in western North Carolina and beyond.

Their shows are polished, interactive, and endlessly entertaining. With clever arrangements and rock solid musicianship, the band breathes new life into some of the twentieth century’s greatest tunes. Their unique approach transcends nostalgia and offers listeners something both vintage and new.  

Bandleader Drayton Aldridge is a singular force on the violin, mixing a classical upbringing with jazz chops, country fiddle licks, and more than a touch of rock & roll swagger. According to Lyndsay Pruett, renowned fiddler for Jon Stickley Trio, “You can’t hide behind the violin. Drayton lays it all out there for the listener: pain, laughter, playfulness, fury. I think that is what attracts so many people to his live performances.”

At the end of the day though, it is Drayton’s vocals that truly set this band apart. He sings with a relaxed confidence, caressing each vowel as he mines every phrase for emotion. Backed up by some of Asheville’s most talented musicians on electric guitar, upright bass, and drums, Drayton invites listeners into a whole other world with his soulful voice.

Drayton & The Dreamboats play frequently around western North Carolina and have performed throughout the southeast United States. The band generally performs as a quartet, but can also play as a trio without drums or even strip down to a guitar and violin duo. Drayton & The Dreamboats are available for shows, festivals, and dances, as well as weddings, parties, and other private events. The band’s exceptional music, showmanship, and professionalism make Drayton & The Dreamboats an inspired choice for whatever the occasion.