A Perspective of the Band
This Band only exists because of each member’s love of the music and the enjoyment derived from playing together and sharing our music with others. Our musical spectrum starts with hard Driving Traditional type Bluegrass music and extends to slow dancing Country/Western and includes everything in between. We’re mostly retirees and our motto is:
“if it ain’t fun, it ain’t us!”
Who are the band members? As a result of an extensive involvement with the musical scene in the greater Tucson area, I acquired knowledge of the available local musical talent. This knowledge was used to select a top level performer for each position in this band. The criterion was: expert musical instrument skills, singing ability, compatible nature and the ability to complement each other musically. My first choice for most of the band’s positions, accepted my proposal to join this band immediately. These guys are good! As the organizer of the Band, let me share my perspective of each band member and why each was selected.
“if it ain’t fun, it ain’t us!”
Who are the band members? As a result of an extensive involvement with the musical scene in the greater Tucson area, I acquired knowledge of the available local musical talent. This knowledge was used to select a top level performer for each position in this band. The criterion was: expert musical instrument skills, singing ability, compatible nature and the ability to complement each other musically. My first choice for most of the band’s positions, accepted my proposal to join this band immediately. These guys are good! As the organizer of the Band, let me share my perspective of each band member and why each was selected.
BILL PAUL
When Bill attended one of my jams; I was immediately taken by his skills on the banjo. I paid close attention not only to his breaks, but also to his tasteful licks when backing up other instruments or singers. When he demonstrated his singing talents and easy going nature, I decided he is the banjo player I want in my band. As the Band’s Musical Director, he conducts all practices and decides when a song is ready for the set list. Bill was a Master Plumber in Iowa before moving to Tucson.
SAM BROWN
This contest winning fiddler is 86 years young. There’s a sparkle in his eye and he’s sharp as a tack. Sam plays with only three fingers on his left hand; having lost one as a youngster. An excellent fiddler that litterly steals the show when he sings. He’s a crowd pleaser, and a true “Showman”. Can you believe it - is wife’s name is
BILL DEVINNEY
Bill was selected for two major reasons. First, his vocals are really top notch and secondly, the need for a strong rhythm guitar to match up with the strong lead instrument players. He is a published song writer and a seasoned performer that fit the Band’s needs perfectly. Bill is still in the active work force – owner/manager of DeVinney Insurance, an independent insurance agency in Tucson
REID GRIFFIN
Reid was selected for his excellent and experienced Bass Fiddle Playing combined with the ability to sing both lead and harmony. He also plays electric bass and is an accomplished acoustical guitar player. It was a pleasant surprise when he agreed to schedule his work activities so that he could play in this band. Reid is owner/manager of Pueblo Equity Inc, a real estate firm located in Tucson, AZ
CHARLIE SIDES
That’s me. Being the organizer and facilitator, my contribution to this Band includes Band Leader, Business Manager, and MC. I also sing, play the mandolin and the tenor guitar which allows me to also contribute to the musical presentation of the Band. I am a retired engineering manager from The Boeing Co in Seattle, WA.