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Welcome to the American Band website! |
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Originally from Smithfield, Fred has played rock n’ roll in the area for over 30 years. Rumors suggest that he started out on drums but quickly switched to guitar (to our good fortune). It must have been the influence of such notables as Ritchie Blackmore, Robin Trower and most of all, his father, who handed him his first guitar and introduced him to the magic of music.This keeps Fred's fingers wrapped tightly around his Stratocasters. A laid-back fisherman and family man, Fred eschews the pomp and histrionics of other performers, preferring just to play it loud, hard and close to the groove. Needless to say, he has no room for any other musical genre except straight-ahead rock 'n roll—with an attitude, no doubt. |
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From Masontown, Steve has covered the likes of the Eagles, Bob Seger, Bon Jovi and even John Denver (very under-rated songwriter and performer—lousy pilot, though) for over 15 years. A consummate Steeler fan, Steve, like his team's better QB's, seems to shine even brighter when he gets "flushed out of the pocket." When the crowd gets going, so does our self-effacing lead vocalist. Yet he still craves a team victory over a personal best. Steve enjoys photography, has strong family ties and a taste for sushi. Just don't ask him about the time the wife ran over the Harley. |
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From Uniontown, "Rappin' Rodney" (as Fred calls him) probably has had as many basses as Hugh Hefner has had Playmates. And there's a new one every month! Eclectic to the core, Rodney has recordings that the artists themselves don't know about. Although secretive about his past (some say espionage was at play), his arcane knowledge of popular music belies his influences—Rodney plays it all and has played it all with many popular local acts. Like Waldo he seems to be everywhere, so long as you can pick him out in the crowd. |
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From Deer Lake, a WVU percussion graduate, Clint has been keeping his unique style of smooth rhythm drum beats for many bands throughout his 35+ years of performing live music. Now he can only be found sitting at one of his many sets of DW’s solidly planted center stage with his American Band. We think it’s safe to say his days of ‘playing the field’ are behind him. |
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From Western Maryland, Rodney has been involved with playing or producing live music for over 40 years. A student of the organ and piano since he was 8, Rodney draws his influence from the likes of Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard, Del Shannon, Deep purple and many others. But his main motivation comes from his Mother who has guided him through his years of playing and kept him focused on what has become a major love in his life, Music. Rodney has been in several east coast bands and have opened for acts such as Bang Tango and Sebastian Bach (of Skid Row fame). Now armed with dual Korg keyboards, a Leslie at his side and a serious collection of stage sunglasses, we have the unique pleasure to count him amongst the members of the American Band. |
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Nick named 'Taz', Mike brings 30 years of experience to the band. In 1980 Mike bought his first guitar and then wrecked on a motorcycle, off work for 9 months Mike had nothing to do, but teach himself how to play his guitar. He has been in several bands as lead vocalist and rhythm guitar player, until 1998 when he decided to retire. After several years of nothing he started running sound for several bands and takes his job very seriously. Mike has run sound for The Four Tops, The Jaggerz, Solid gold and Granotti Brothers just to name a few. Mike enjoys bringing out the best the band has to offer. |
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From Uniontown, Nick has been with the band for 2 years. With an expanding responsibility ( And growing amount of effects equipment! ) we’re sure to keep him busy for years to come. |
