Backstory:
Concerned Ref stems from the vibrant college town of Eugene, Oregon where childhood friends, Jason “Jaz” Radcliffe and John “Spike” McQuade, first started jamming together in their high school years. Both were avid sports enthusiasts and played for their school basketball team where they were notorious for questioning every referee call. This humorous yet passionate skepticism led to their peculiar band name, ‘Concerned Ref.’ Through college, they honed their music skills, and on a whim, entered a local talent show where their eclectic style and infectious energy resonated with the crowd. As they continued to play in local bars and college events, their fame spread, and the Concerned Ref transitioned from a pastime to a full-time gig.

Genre:
Concerned Ref is best described as Indie Rock with flavors of Punk and Alternative Pop.

Title:
“Whistleblower’s Dilemma”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Every call I make, it [D] weighs on me,
[Em] Each decision shakes my [C] sanity,
[G] On this court of life, it’s [D] hard to see,
[Em] Which way the game will [C] sway, baby.

(Chorus)
[Am] I’m just a Concerned Ref, [G] living on the edge,
[D] Trying to keep the peace, [C] walking on a ledge,
[Am] My heart is the whistle, [G] my soul’s the pledge,
[D] In this Whistleblower’s [C] Dilemma.

(Verse 2)
[G] Doubts linger, as I [D] make the play,
[Em] Can’t rewind or [C] cast away,
[G] In this game, we all [D] have a say,
[Em] Yet the referee is [C] alone, always.

(Chorus)
[Am] I’m just a Concerned Ref, [G] caught in the strife,
[D] Balancing the scales, [C] in the game of life,
[Am] My heart is the whistle, [G] cutting like a knife,
[D] In this Whistleblower’s [C] Dilemma.

Favorite Fan’s Name: Lucy “Hoops” Peterson

Testimonial:
Lucy says, “I’ve been a fan of Concerned Ref since their first gig at the town talent show. Their unique blend of Indie Rock with Punk influences resonates with me as it’s both expressive and unconventional. ‘Whistleblower’s Dilemma’, my favorite, encapsulates what Concerned Ref is all about – questioning, self-doubt, decision-making, and staying true to oneself. When I listen to their music, I feel seen and heard. The energy they bring to their live performances is unparalleled, making them my all-time favorite band.”