HOW I GOT HERE

I can't tell you how many piano lessons I took when I was about middle school age, but none of them worked. I would hear the teacher play the song and I'd know most of it without looking at the music. But give me a piece of music and ask me to play it - no chance.

Around 14 years of age, I got my first guitar - a cheap electric with a mini amp. Took lessons at Fredericks Music in Goldsboro, NC - this time the lessons worked. But being able to also play by ear was nice too. I learned rockabilly listening to Elvis tunes - the really old stuff from 45s that belonged to my Aunt Elaine. The songs went from Elvis to Van Halen over the next few years.

In 2002 I bought my first acoustic guitar - and since then, I've gone diehard acoustic. I incorporate the guitar into some of my shows when it is feasible and appropriate. I call myself more of an entertainer than a musician, but I hope it becomes obvious when you see me perform that I have a passion for singing.

I am a regular on the Carolina Music Showcase, Big Barn Theater and the Uptown Country Music Show. I also perform at area festivals and events. Since my music tends to be classic country and rockabilly from the 1950s to the 1970s, I tend to get a lot of jobs for class reunions and birthdays for folks that grew up in that era - folks and an era that I envy.

Hence the title of my latest CD - I should've been sixteen in '56. This CD has nine of my many favorite songs - these also happen to be some of my most requested songs too.

Now that I have completed my Christmas CD, I am working on a new project - a gospel CD. I'll keep you informed on the progress.