Live Music

Luna and The Warriors is a high-energy, female-fronted band delivering a powerful “all shades of rock” experience.

The band blends classic rock, arena rock, pop-rock, blues, modern hits and originals always with a bold rock edge.

Known for their dynamic performances and strong audience connection, Luna and The Warriors create shows that are electrifying, elegant, and unforgettable.

More than a band, they are a rock experience driven by passion, versatility, and pure stage power.

The reality of the ‘music industry’ is so different from what it was, when I first picked up a guitar.

It’s changed so intensely, and so fast within the last decade alone, that every concrete notion we had about it has dissipated.

A lot of people look at this time in music through a lens of fear and disappointment, considering the diminishing monetary returns and devaluation of music (and art) in general.

I’d like to think of it as an opportunity to be a part of the new wave and fresh scene that’s developing right in front of our eyes, on digital screens. There’s never been a better time in history to have a good idea, execute on it, and push it out to the world.

That’s what I’m here to do.” - Houston

In the summer of 2006, Houston took his initial steps into music, with the purchase of a novice acoustic guitar from the local music store, Billy Bones. This investment, and two years of weekly lessons would be the first chapter in a long career of musical endeavors. Continually practicing and reaching for any opportunities, he would fall in and out of bands with friends, churches, and similar contemporaries in the North Florida scene.

His first official gig (under his own name) would happen in the blistering summer of 2010, playing in the small neighboring town of Cedar Key, FL. Originally unprepared and ill-equipped, he would fail, succeed, lose again, and recover for over seven more years in the local bar circuit. He would bounce between late-night gigs and early morning construction jobs to supplement the recording of his debut album, Jenny.

All of this would eventually accumulate into the decision to relocate to the Live Music Capital of The World: Austin, Texas.

Houston arrived in the Lone Star State in November 2017, with a slew of pre-booked shows that had been coordinated during his time in Florida. Armed with a MacBook Air from Goodwill, he would devote hours into building connections, booking gigs, learning design and video software, and becoming a valuable asset and artist within the ATX scene.

Over the next two years, he would cut his teeth in the Texas music scene; before a world-wide pandemic would close the doors to many legendary establishments, and freeze the entertainment industry in it’s tracks.

In the beginning of 2020, Houston would leave Texas and return to Florida for his former job in concrete and masonry.

In every city of America, the bars, restaurants, and businesses would remain closed for the unforeseeable future. This dark period of time would allow for something unexpected: A break. A time to step away and create in the isolation of quiet streets and empty buildings. It was during this time that Houston would pen the songs for his next project: Warmer Era.

Working during the day, and writing through the night, he would accumulate enough money and material to book the recording sessions at Black Bear Studios in Gainesville, FL; with producer Logan Fischer.

The project would be tracked during the Fall / Winter of 2020, and would release in April of the following year.

Sequentially, the sister-album: I See Horror would be recorded that summer, and released in November of the same year.

During 2021, Florida would eventually lighten its pandemic restrictions, and the entertainment circuit would slowly recover to its original glory. Houston would once again make the jump to full-time musician, but with a recalibrated perspective and a collection of scars and notches under his belt. He would continue to gig constantly, and begin writing on his sophomore album: Southern Oranges. The album recording process would take place between January 2022 and November of 2023. It would include world-class talent and artists from Florida, Georgia, Nashville, and Austin.

Nearly three years later, the scene is back in full-swing and Houston Keen is one of the key players in the area. He manages himself, owns his label and songs, has written and recorded with a CMA Artist, and continues to tour Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Texas every year. There’s no plan to sign to a record deal or leave Florida. Houston is currently building his brand entirely through weekly touring, constant social media marketing, and releasing music on a monthly basis. He is currently writing and recording for his upcoming project, and touring the North Florida area.

“Why leave for any big city? In my opinion, that’s where a lot of young talent gets mixed up in bad contracts. I think the real move would be to take that pile of money you’re gonna burn on an apartment and invest it into a camera, editing software, and marketing dollars. In ten years time, you might shoot to the moon with the help of a place like Nashville or LA, but I’m placing my bet on the people learning how to work the social media game, and push constant content of themselves and what they do.

It’s literally the biggest billboard in the world, and the price of ad placements are the cheapest they’ll ever be.

Build your own brand with the tools online, and go hit em’ hard when you got leverage.” - Houston

Gary Ray Harvey, born and raised in Amarillo, Texas has played guitar with a variety of artists including Jim Morris and the Big Bamboo Band, The Platters, The Coasters, Jimmy Collins and he has performed at Farm Aid with Willie Nelson. Gary, as lead guitar player, could be heard and seen in the music video for the hit single “I Love Texas” in 1991. Gary has written and performed many original songs including “911,” his heartfelt reaction to the catastrophe on September 11, 2001, which received global acclaim. Through radio play and broadcast interviews, Gary has developed a loyal and dedicated fan base, which has only grown since joining forces with Kerri. Gary has performed in forty two states and over twenty-five countries during the past twenty-five years.

Kerri Lynn, a Florida transplant from New Jersey, started her singing career in her church’s choir and has since catapulted into the top 40 scene. While singing backup for Rod Stewart, performing the National Anthem for thousands in packed arenas, she still found the time to perform with various local & regional variety/show bands. Her 21 year career with Gary has allowed her to further develop herself as a singer. With diverse vocal ability, she can be heard singing anything from Patsy Cline to Lady Gaga as well as the multitude of original songs that she and Gary have written.

Gary and Kerri started performing together in 2004 mainly in Southwest Florida, but their talent and determination have taken them on a whirlwind of diverse and exciting performance adventures throughout the United States. Gary & Kerri are the perfect duo for fairs/festivals, private events, corporate functions or virtually any other event.

In November, 2007 the two answered a request to enter "Can You Duet," a contest hosted by CMT in association with "American Idol" producers. In December, 2007 they produced a dvd and submitted it to the California office, in return, Gary and Kerri were invited to come perform live in Nashville, TN.

As of September, 2008, Gary & Kerri have recorded "911 / National Anthem," "Live At The Southwick Inn" and "Nice to Meet You," and now, their most recent single "Ain't No Doubt".

Today they have well over 5000 performances together as a dynamic duo.

Hey there, I’m Danny Beach! Picture this: You’re chilling at your favorite spot, and who’s strumming that guitar, making you tap your feet? That’s right, it’s me! I’ve been playing my heart out at restaurants, Tiki bars, and all sorts of shindigs in Southwest Florida for over 20 years.

Home is where the heart is, and mine’s anchored right in Charlotte Harbor, Florida. I’ve rocked venues all the way from St. Pete to Naples, and let me tell you, it’s been one heck of a ride. I’m not just any musician; I’ve got a guitar that practically plays itself, a voice that’ll serenade you, and a harmonica that’s as sweet as Florida oranges. Need some chill vibes or a rockin’ night? I’m your guy! I’ve got all the tunes we all love – from James Taylor to ZZ Top – and I’m all about those special requests.

Here’s a fun fact: I used to fight fires in Washington D.C.! Now, I’ve swapped my firefighter boots for a captain’s hat, mastering the seas around the Gulf of Mexico when I’m not jamming out.

Want to catch me live? Swing by places like the Sandbar in Englewood, or maybe find me at Twisted Fork in Port Charlotte. I’m all over the place, including Punta Gorda’s finest spots like Harpoon Harry’s. So, come on down, bring your friends, and let’s have a blast with some great music. Can’t wait to see ya!

Featuring Randy McCormick
Formerly with Storm Warning & Last Train!

Josef is a highly accomplished musician and vocalist. He has worked with
the likes of Lover Boy, .38 Special, Clarence Carter, Billy Preston, Less
Dudek, Moja-Nye & more! Josef is a natural performer and has acquired
vast diversity in musical ability & style to cover many genres and sound
authentic!

Let’s have FUN! *Dance & Sing Along!

Kenny Rose is a singer/songwriter from a little town in Michigan called Union Lake. He worked at his family car business as he and his bride raised their 4 children. Though the business was good to them, he always had the dream of some day playing music for a living. That dream came true in 2004 when they sold the business and Kenny and Tammy moved to Florida’s gulf coast, settling in another little town called Englewood. He has been “living the dream” ever since and his songwriting reflects that lifestyle.

His first C.D. “Take A Chance” was released in 2004. The music on this all original C.D. was more in the pop contemporary feel. As he began living in Florida his songs took on a much more Trop Rock feel, and his second C.D. “Sunshine State of Mind” released in April 2010 certainly reflects that. All but one of the tracks are original compositions, and his songs “Driving Down Here is Driving me to Drinking” and “The Grandparent’s Song” have become staples in the area. He also has had 3 of his songs in a motion picture that was available on Amazon prime for a few years.

Kenny’s shows can be very interactive if the crowd is right for it, handing out percussion instruments and getting everyone to sing along is his favorite thing to do. He has an over 300 song repertoire and he hands out books so the crowd can see what he plays and ask for requests. He doesn’t use any backing tracks or pre recorded music, so he can be spontaneous and go wherever the crowd wants him to go! His mic and guitar are wireless so he is free to roam around and get  everyone involved. He is enjoying his musical life and plays 5 to 7 shows a week in the Englewood and Venice area, playing mostly covers of 60’s and 70’s songs, however with 300 songs you can be sure he has a few from most era’s that you’ll know. Known as one of the “hardest working musicians in town” Kenny just laughs and says “I play music, keyword is PLAY.”

You can find more info on Kenny, hear and purchase his music and check out his schedule at www.kennyrose.com.

Rob Garcia is a Southwest Florida–based rock ’n’ roll troubadour who built his reputation the old way — on stages, not shortcuts. A solo 12-string guitarist and powerhouse vocalist, he delivers classic rock with conviction, precision, and a storyteller’s pulse. Decades deep in the game, Garcia blends arena-sized anthems with intimate, up-close energy, creating nights that feel personal, electric, and alive. His performances aren’t background music — they’re shared experiences built on craft, connection, and command of the room.

Performing throughout Port Charlotte and the surrounding region, Garcia serves an audience that grew up with the records and still believes in the power of a live song well played. His shows move from quiet reflection to full-throttle celebration, guided by sharp musicianship and a revivalist spirit that rejects trends in favor of truth. For listeners who value authenticity over flash and substance over spectacle, Rob Garcia delivers what real rock ’n’ roll was always meant to be: honest, communal, and unforgettable.

SIREN Arena Rock Experience (formerly ROCK CANDY) brings the thunder with high-energy performances that recreate the iconic sounds of arena rock.

With powerhouse vocalist, Siren Voxx and her seasoned musicians, SIREN Arena Rock Experience delivers that authentic concert experience that transport audiences back to the heyday of stadium pomp rock.

Get ready to sing along to hits from Journey, REO Speedwagon, Heart, RUSH, Styx, and more, as SIREN Arena Rock Experience ignites the stage with electrifying performances that leave crowds breathless.

Phoenix5 is a powerhouse cover band that puts a unique spin on timeless classics across Funk, Soul, Reggae, and Rock. Comprised of Central Florida’s most seasoned session musicians, the band delivers high-energy performances that keep audiences moving all night long.

Recently named Best Regional Band in The Best of Florida awards by The Guide to Florida, Phoenix5 is known for reinventing beloved hits with fresh arrangements and infectious grooves. Whether it’s a soulful ballad or a dance-floor anthem, every show is a one-of-a-kind experience. Dancing shoes required.

What started as a summer rock band camp challenge at The Rock Box School and Stage in 2025, quickly turned into something electric. Founded by Zachary Westall, Maley and the Maniacs were born when five young musicians were pushed to learn a brand-new rock song every single day for five straight days — ending the week with a live performance.

The moment they hit the stage together, the spark was undeniable. They were hooked — and the magic was born.

Now this five-member powerhouse (ages 10–14) is bringing big sound and bigger energy to stages across Southwest Florida.

Maley – Lead vocals & guitar
Dennis – Lead guitar
Sadie – Bass
Aries – Piano/Keys
Cooper – Drums

From classic rock anthems to newer favorites, Maley and the Maniacs deliver high-energy performances that prove rock and roll has no age limit.

This isn’t just a kids’ band — it’s the next generation of rock.

Johnny Bauer is a touring Americana songwriter/entertainer from Rochester, NY. He is a seasoned guitarist, harmonica player, and vocalist of 40 years, performing both solo and as a 3 piece band. Johnny incorporates the style of artists like Merle Haggard, Tom Petty, and John Mayer into his soulful Americana music, with a variety of familiar favorites and infectious original songs to keep the crowd dancing and engaged.

Kenny Rose is a singer/songwriter from a little town in Michigan called Union Lake. He worked at his family car business as he and his bride raised their 4 children. Though the business was good to them, he always had the dream of some day playing music for a living. That dream came true in 2004 when they sold the business and Kenny and Tammy moved to Florida’s gulf coast, settling in another little town called Englewood. He has been “living the dream” ever since and his songwriting reflects that lifestyle.

His first C.D. “Take A Chance” was released in 2004. The music on this all original C.D. was more in the pop contemporary feel. As he began living in Florida his songs took on a much more Trop Rock feel, and his second C.D. “Sunshine State of Mind” released in April 2010 certainly reflects that. All but one of the tracks are original compositions, and his songs “Driving Down Here is Driving me to Drinking” and “The Grandparent’s Song” have become staples in the area. He also has had 3 of his songs in a motion picture that was available on Amazon prime for a few years.

Kenny’s shows can be very interactive if the crowd is right for it, handing out percussion instruments and getting everyone to sing along is his favorite thing to do. He has an over 300 song repertoire and he hands out books so the crowd can see what he plays and ask for requests. He doesn’t use any backing tracks or pre recorded music, so he can be spontaneous and go wherever the crowd wants him to go! His mic and guitar are wireless so he is free to roam around and get  everyone involved. He is enjoying his musical life and plays 5 to 7 shows a week in the Englewood and Venice area, playing mostly covers of 60’s and 70’s songs, however with 300 songs you can be sure he has a few from most era’s that you’ll know. Known as one of the “hardest working musicians in town” Kenny just laughs and says “I play music, keyword is PLAY.”

You can find more info on Kenny, hear and purchase his music and check out his schedule at www.kennyrose.com.

Cabana Dogs are a high-energy beach rock band based in Sarasota, Florida. Their unique coastal mix calls on Rock, Country, MoTown, and Soulful music, creating a carefree atmosphere wherever they go.

A people's band. Cabana Dogs members are equipped with the band's founder Jimi C, adding vocals and Guitar. Next we have Shannon Lewis adding powerful vocals and harmonies. Also adding vocals is monster our drummer Sean McCord. Also we have Willy D who holds down the fort on Bass. Last but not least, we have our youngest member and tech Cajun who adds his talent to round out the mix. Together their strong presence and audience interactions radiate infectious moods and grooves that will get anyone smiling, singing along and on their feet.

Having an eclectic taste and passion for music, Jonny applies his unique brand of acoustic flavor to cover tunes that span 7 decades of music from Rock, Pop, Jazz and Country. With over 40 years of guitar playing experience and a strong vocal presence, he will most certainly have you tapping your feet or singing along to a cherished musical memory while he sprinkles an original piece here and there. Let Jonny introduce you to a different take on something familiar and you may just walk away humming a new favorite.

For the past 17 years I’ve been performing acoustic solo shows, with the last 13 years based in Southwest Florida. I’ve played just about every venue on Fort Myers Beach, plus a few in Venice, Sarasota, Sanibel, Captiva, and beyond, along with many private events.

My live sets feature acoustic versions of singer-songwriter tunes, classic rock, blues, country, and my own originals.

I’ve been writing songs for years and have a fourth all-original album coming in 2026, along with an audiobook release the same year. My material has received radio airplay, primarily on indie stations.

After many years as a member of successful working and touring bands - and sharing stages large and small with some notable talent - I made the move to solo performing.

Originally from just south of Detroit, my musical roots run deep and well-aged. I’m a cradle-to-the-grave musician and plan to keep writing and performing till it's no longer.

I love the life I live, and I live the life I love!

Recently, I have been working with a brilliant colleague on a Pink Floyd tribute/collaboration project that we’re actively promoting now. It’s shaping up to be a huge hit at a realistic ticket price.

Feel free to peruse my Facebook page, listen to my music, and purchase products through direct message there.

Winners of 2025’s Best Live Entertainment – North Port Sun

FM Station FLA is a five-piece, high-energy 80s tribute band bringing the ultimate retro experience to stages across Florida. Specializing in the danceable side of pop rock, new wave, and ska, we don’t play the same tired Florida circuit hits — we resurrect the deep cuts, the guilty pleasures, and the tracks you forgot you loved… all with a fresh twist.

Our shows are a full-on production, featuring professional sound and lighting, plus four LED video screens streaming vintage 80s music videos, commercials, and nostalgic moments that transport the audience straight back to the decade of big hair and neon flair.

We’re best known for our crowd-favorite “Sunglasses at Night” set, where we pass out glowing LED sunglasses and get everyone in on the fun. It’s not just a concert — it’s a party, a time machine, and a night you won’t forget.

Catch us live and let’s rewind the clock — 80s style.

Ride the rhythm with High Tide! Known for their beach-loving spirit, this crew brings the vibe with a wide variety of eclectic covers, and island-infused jams that'll have you dancing in the sand. Whether you're catchin' a bite or sippin' on a Margarita, High Tide delivers the soundtrack for a perfect beach day!

Hightide is a band that has been a part of SWFL since 2006 and has a unique brand of music best described as an original twist on popular but not typical, Soft Rock to Reggae... A refreshing approach with a contagious energy/vibe that makes people smile, relax, dance and wipe away the stress of everyday life. SWFL's most original cover band that appeals to music lovers of all ages and in a family environment.

High Tide is:
Scottee Novello-Vocals and Bass
Danny Shepard-Vocals Guitar

Two full time musicians who have performed with multiple world renowned musicians and bands and currently truly enjoying what we do!

Boston and Key West based Rob Benton has spent the last 2 decades as both a solo artist, a member of the duo "Key West Kings" and lead guitarist performing alongside artists as diverse as Nelly, Lee Brice, Cooper Allan, Nate Smith, Skidrow, Everlast, LFO, New Kids On The Block, J. Geils Band and many more!

A dynamic performer, Rob Benton‘s style is extremely unique. By combining percussion, looping, beat boxing, electrified rock and hip hop elements to his solo acoustic playing, Rob fills out his sound like a four-piece band. Whether playing tracks from his own albums, Dawn Meets Day, Home, Finding Me & Key West King’s "Caroline Street" or covering one of the multitude of artists who have influenced him over the years, Rob makes every song his own.

Not to be confused with the tropical sounds commonly found or stereotyped on the little island south of Florida, Rob’s show is a heavy hitting, showboating, full contact fight with his guitar.

Rob Benton has made a name for himself around the US and islands by combining country, rock and hip hop coupled with a driving rock beat, live looping and heaping mounds of “guitar hero” theatrics that make this show a jaw dropping visual and audible, live show experience.

Tavo Tiki Tunes is one of the top musical duos in SW Florida. Playing top venues from Venice to Fort Myers.

They play classic to current popular songs, pop, rock, Motown, blues and country.

Featuring Charlie Lawrence with her sultry bluesy, soulful vocals. One of the top vocalists in SWFL.

With over 40 years of experience as a live performer, Mark Tavo is a one band, playing guitar, adding drums and percussion, guitar synth, vocals.

Tavo Tiki Tunes sounds like a full band. No backing tracks, all live music. A fun, professional high energy show for all ages.

Whiskey Beach Band delivers a high-energy mix of classic rock, Southern rock, country, and dance music that keeps the party going all night long! With powerful vocals, tight harmonies, and top-tier musicianship, they bring the perfect blend of nostalgic favorites and modern hits to every show. Whether you’re looking for boot-stomping country, soulful rock anthems, or crowd-pleasing dance tunes, Whiskey Beach Band has something for everyone. From beachside bars to lively festivals and private events, they create an unforgettable experience that gets people on their feet and singing along.

Kenny Rose is a singer/songwriter from a little town in Michigan called Union Lake. He worked at his family car business as he and his bride raised their 4 children. Though the business was good to them, he always had the dream of some day playing music for a living. That dream came true in 2004 when they sold the business and Kenny and Tammy moved to Florida’s gulf coast, settling in another little town called Englewood. He has been “living the dream” ever since and his songwriting reflects that lifestyle.

His first C.D. “Take A Chance” was released in 2004. The music on this all original C.D. was more in the pop contemporary feel. As he began living in Florida his songs took on a much more Trop Rock feel, and his second C.D. “Sunshine State of Mind” released in April 2010 certainly reflects that. All but one of the tracks are original compositions, and his songs “Driving Down Here is Driving me to Drinking” and “The Grandparent’s Song” have become staples in the area. He also has had 3 of his songs in a motion picture that was available on Amazon prime for a few years.

Kenny’s shows can be very interactive if the crowd is right for it, handing out percussion instruments and getting everyone to sing along is his favorite thing to do. He has an over 300 song repertoire and he hands out books so the crowd can see what he plays and ask for requests. He doesn’t use any backing tracks or pre recorded music, so he can be spontaneous and go wherever the crowd wants him to go! His mic and guitar are wireless so he is free to roam around and get  everyone involved. He is enjoying his musical life and plays 5 to 7 shows a week in the Englewood and Venice area, playing mostly covers of 60’s and 70’s songs, however with 300 songs you can be sure he has a few from most era’s that you’ll know. Known as one of the “hardest working musicians in town” Kenny just laughs and says “I play music, keyword is PLAY.”

You can find more info on Kenny, hear and purchase his music and check out his schedule at www.kennyrose.com.

The Julia Brown Band formed in 2021, comprised of Suncoast musicians, playing a variety of rock, blues, country, funk, and pop from the 70s-today’s hits. Band members include Bryan Spainhower on electric guitar, Bill Sawilchik on electric guitar and backing vocals, Ben Hammerbacher on bass guitar & backing vocals, Danny Guanchez on drums, and Julia Brown on acoustic guitar & vocals.

NightWatch is a four piece group that brings over a century's worth of performance experience to each song it plays. The setlist is pure Americana with a healthy dose of British as well as other influences. Listeners can hear anything from Beatles to Hendrix to Dire Straits to ZZ Top songs, Eagles to Fleetwood Mac. Come by and let us play for you!

The Frogs are a classic Rock Band comprised of lifelong musicians from all over the country/world who came together over the last 5 years right here in southwest FL. We named the band the “Four Really Old Guy’S” FROGS because the music keeps us young, at least on the inside. The men representing this band are perhaps some of the most talented musicians in SW Florida.

Our Drummer Harry Kaplan arrives from Queens New York. John Couto our Lead Vocalist/keyboardist from NJ/FL Ian Faber, our sound engineer from Ireland. Glen Mineau our lead guitarist from Miami and Chuck Leonard our Bassist from Buffalo NY.

Hailing from the vibrant landscapes of Jamaica and now based in the sun-soaked shores of Southwest Florida, Jah Rockaz is a dynamic reggae/pop fusion group that captivates audiences with their infectious sound. Blending heavy bass lines and thunderous drum beats, their music creates an immersive experience that resonates deeply with listeners.

The band's signature style features psychedelic guitar riffs that weave through echoing keyboards, setting a backdrop for smooth and catchy lyrics that tell stories of love, life, and the human experience. Drawing on our rich Jamaican roots, Jah Rockaz infuses traditional reggae rhythms with contemporary pop influences, creating a unique sound that appeals to a diverse audience.

Since our formation, Jah rockaz has been dedicated to crafting music that not only entertains but also inspires. Our energetic performances and relatable messages have earned us a loyal following, making us a beloved fixture in the local music scene and beyond.

Join Jah Rockaz on our musical journey as we continue to push boundaries and redefine the reggae/pop genre, one electrifying note at a time.

Carnival of Soul® is a Nationally Touring and Published "Progressive/Alternative Rock Band" from Southwest Florida that has published 4 CD's globally. These Veterans have shared the stage with such great acts as Boston, Nazareth, Steppenwolf, Warrant, Night Ranger, W.A.S.P., Savatage, The Bullet Boys, Tantric, Winger, Girlschool, Kansas, and even Taylor Dayne!! Welcome to the Carnival!! www.carnivalofsoul.net D'No is the Lead Vocalist and Lead Guitarist, Writer, and Producer for Carnival of Soul®. When the full band is not touring, he books "The Carnival of Soul® Duo", which consists of himself and one of the other members of the full band. The Duo plays an eclectic mix of Rock, Country, Blues and Pop Cover Songs from the late 60's to Current Charting Songs. They also specialize in "One Hit Wonders" from All genres and eras.

Kenny Rose is a singer/songwriter from a little town in Michigan called Union Lake. He worked at his family car business as he and his bride raised their 4 children. Though the business was good to them, he always had the dream of some day playing music for a living. That dream came true in 2004 when they sold the business and Kenny and Tammy moved to Florida’s gulf coast, settling in another little town called Englewood. He has been “living the dream” ever since and his songwriting reflects that lifestyle.

His first C.D. “Take A Chance” was released in 2004. The music on this all original C.D. was more in the pop contemporary feel. As he began living in Florida his songs took on a much more Trop Rock feel, and his second C.D. “Sunshine State of Mind” released in April 2010 certainly reflects that. All but one of the tracks are original compositions, and his songs “Driving Down Here is Driving me to Drinking” and “The Grandparent’s Song” have become staples in the area. He also has had 3 of his songs in a motion picture that was available on Amazon prime for a few years.

Kenny’s shows can be very interactive if the crowd is right for it, handing out percussion instruments and getting everyone to sing along is his favorite thing to do. He has an over 300 song repertoire and he hands out books so the crowd can see what he plays and ask for requests. He doesn’t use any backing tracks or pre recorded music, so he can be spontaneous and go wherever the crowd wants him to go! His mic and guitar are wireless so he is free to roam around and get  everyone involved. He is enjoying his musical life and plays 5 to 7 shows a week in the Englewood and Venice area, playing mostly covers of 60’s and 70’s songs, however with 300 songs you can be sure he has a few from most era’s that you’ll know. Known as one of the “hardest working musicians in town” Kenny just laughs and says “I play music, keyword is PLAY.”

You can find more info on Kenny, hear and purchase his music and check out his schedule at www.kennyrose.com.

The Hip Squad was originally formed in 2011, in the Cleveland, Ohio music scene by 3 talented musicians from the area. Dezi Dorsey (guitar & vocals), Danny Morris (keyboards & vocals), and Tommy Varga (drums & vocals) constituted the band’s original lineup. Tommy having worked with both Dezi Dorsey and Danny Morris at different times and in different bands saw an opportunity to form a great new band. Danny was aware of Dezi’s vocal abilities, Dezi was aware of Danny’s keyboard abilities, and Tommy was aware of both. All three could sing lead and harmonies so they knew this could be something great. Dezi and Danny always wanted to work together but unfortunately were always in different bands.

In 2011, everything finally lined up. Danny had come off a touring gig with Jaime St. James of the 80’s hair band Black n’ Blue who had 2 MTV hits, “Miss Mystery” and “Hold on to 18”. Danny was a member of Jaime’s solo project called St. James. They toured for about 3 years promoting the Americanman CD. Dezi Dorsey, also with a lot of performance experience, played for some years in the Time Trax band with Danny’s brother Mike Morris doing shows on Carnival Cruise Lines along with a sweet run at Sammy Hagar’s famous Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Tommy Varga, a well-known Cleveland drummer gained a lot of traction with his brother in the Jeff Varga Band and also with High Heel Sneakers. He also performed in various Disney showbands in Orlando. After gaining valuable experience, all three members were back to performing locally and were all finally available in 2011 at the same time and decided to give it a go!

At the time, there were several bands covering the 80’s hair metal and classic rock genres in the Cleveland music scene. The Hip Squad with Danny on keys saw an opportunity to have a niche by covering the dance music of the era. Rehearsals came together quickly and the band started performing live shows. Things took off with crowds and gigs building bigger and bigger with songs like, “My Prerogative”, “Superfreak” and “Word Up”. You could also expect to hear some rock classics like “All Right Now”, “Give Me Three Steps” and “Smokin’ in the Boys Room”. Upon joining the band, Danny had told the guys he had plans to possibly move to SW Florida where his parents were snowbirds. The guys thought that was a great idea and would eventually follow. In 2013, things started happening quickly.

Danny Morris packed up and moved to SW Florida with Dezi Dorsey doing the same about a year later. The band reformed with New Orleans native and Full Sail University (Orlando, FL) graduate, Matt Reynolds on drums using the same musical formula. Other notable drummers throughout the years have been Michael Peck, Rick Ory (formerly of Nazareth), and Dave Nichols. The band is now joined by Chicago Native, Todd Moffett on drums. The Hip Squad remembers paying its dues by taking as many gigs as they could through some of the hottest SW Florida summers in order to get established in the area. It was like starting over, but again people liked what they were hearing so the band just kept playing and building its following. The Hip Squad has performed regularly at the Seminole Casinos, first in Immokalee and now at the all new Brighton Bay Casino near lake Okeechobee. They also perform at various clubs, restaurants, bars, and events throughout SW Florida. Their experience and musical chemistry creates an atmosphere that is fun, energetic, danceable, and enjoyable for all age groups. You can find their schedule at www.thehipsquad.net or follow them on Facebook.