Started piano at 9 y/o and played accordion for a few months before that. Started first band in 1969. I have played on and off, solo and groups ever since.
What was the first concert you ever went to?
The Association, c1967 with my sister!
What gear do you use?
Roland D-50 keyboard through a Leslie 147 and a Roland RD-700 I play through Peavey KB300 amp. Have more guitars than is reasonable including a Les Paul, Stratocaster and a 12-string Rik that is a favorite. I play them through an old Fender Twin. I have a cheap Mexico-made Fender jazz bass that I play with my church group. I also play a Martin D-16RGT, a Hofner acoustic 12 string and have an old Epiphone 6-string that was my first decent guitar I got when I was 15. I have a Morgan Monroe "Rocky Top Series" banjo that I inherited from my brother-in-law when he passed away.
Who was your biggest musical influence growing up?
Wow... Beatles, of course. Steppenwolf for flat out rock, Cream and Allman Bros. for blues introduction. Growing up in Tampa, lots of latin influence including Santana, Blues Image. Vocal inspiration from CSN, Buffalo Springfield, Byrds, America, James Taylor and Carole King. Keyboard from Keith Emerson, of course, Greg Allman, Rod Argent. I'm sure I'm leaving out many, many.
Are you in a band? Have you been in bands?
Many bands over the years, rock, jazz, folk, acoustic. Currently in "The Orchard Band" a three-piece acoustic folk-rock ensemble with some bluegrass overlap.