Brews, Beats, and the Lessons Along the Way

There’s something special about playing music at a local brewery, a kind of energy that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. For Bourbon Legend, a central Ohio band built on fun jam sessions, storytelling, and strong community ties, these shows feel less like gigs and more like gatherings.

“We’re lucky that central Ohio has a lot of breweries,” says Bill Reinking, the band’s lead vocalist. “Typically, they’re a great spot for local people to congregate and have fun all while supporting a local business. It feels like the perfect spot for live music entertainment, the perfect fit. The bonus is that nine times out of ten someone’s going to buy us a round.”

That spirit of support for local music, local beer, and the people behind both is something the band doesn’t take for granted. “I like the concept of supporting local,” says banjo player David Brooks. “Local bands at local breweries is something everyone can celebrate.”

It’s not just about the setting, it’s the relationships that form when you return to the same places and see familiar faces. “I like playing the local breweries primarily because they always have a good core group of regulars who enjoy the venue,” says guitarist Jim Lipnos. “And if we play there multiple times, [they] become friends and fans of the band. It is always good to see some familiar faces in the audience and of course the staff at the breweries become fast friends!”

Guitarist Matt Saunders echoes that connection: “Local breweries are small business built on our communities. This is also the basis of having a regional band. I believe that is why we get such a great reception when we play around town.”

And for violinist Megan Rae, the reason is short, sweet, and deeply rooted: “I like playing at local breweries because #supportlocal.”

But beyond the good beer and good company, being in a band teaches you things: sometimes about music, sometimes about people, and sometimes about yourself.

“I’ve learned a lot in the time that we’ve been playing together,” says Bill. “But I think what sticks out most to me is that you shouldn't wait to do what you love. You don’t need anyone’s permission to start creating and making music. It’s important to put out something that you love, that you are proud of, and then let it go. It doesn’t have to be something that everyone likes. It will find the audience that loves it. I think I’ve been most surprised by that.”

That confidence to let go, to enjoy the moment, is something Jim has also embraced. “I've learned a lot being in the band the past couple of years. One thing I have learned about performing is that the audience doesn't pick up on the miscues or flat out wrong chords in songs the way the band does. My philosophy now is the audience is there for a good time and so am I!”

Matt shares a similar realization about what truly matters on stage: “You can practice and study skills and technique all day long, but there is a feel and mode we get into when playing live. Bourbon Legend has grown technically, but being in sync at a fundamental level is not something you can learn.”

Some lessons are more about the road than the music itself. “Always have extra batteries around,” David says. “They never talk about how many batteries you go through.”

And some are about knowing your worth. As Megan puts it, “The lesson I learned as a musician is don’t give to people who don’t give back.”

Whether it’s syncing up on stage, learning to let go of the small stuff, or just remembering to pack the extra gear, every show, especially the ones under string lights and beside fermenters teaches something new.

In the end, it’s not just about playing songs. It’s about showing up, growing together, and making the most of the moment — one local show, and one local pint, at a time.