Best Original Local Band: Andy and Renee
Months ago, Redondo Beach’s Avenue A Bar and Grill went before the City’s Planning Commission seeking to extend their hours. They had a massive show of support behind them, customer after customer praising their business…while also praising regular Avenue A weekend musical act Andy & Renee.
“We have a very passionate following,” Andy said, laughing.
“Passionate” is right. He and Renee Safier play three to four nights a week at venues across the South Bay, and are so popular that fans follow the pair along their circuit.
Hill and Safier have played together for the better part of 30 years, initially meeting in college before reuniting in the late 1980s. Today they play in restaurants, perform in-home private shows and put together events, such as this year’s 26th Annual Dylanfest.
“Everyone likes to say music is the backdrop to life. If you’ve been playing for 20 to 30 years, like us, then your music is that backdrop,” Hill said. “We’ve managed to construct a career out of the passionate support of a few hundred people.”
