RICK DREVET
Introducing Rick Drevet: A Musical Odyssey Fueled by Passion
and Resilience
In the heart of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, a young spirit named
Rick Drevet ignited a lifelong romance with music. At the tender age of 10, his
fingers first plucked the strings of a $10 guitar, a seemingly insignificant
purchase that would set the stage for an extraordinary journey.
Rick's life became a symphony of melodies and chords, a
testament to the unbreakable bond between a musician and their art. Early on,
he found himself jamming with friends in high school, a precursor to the stages
that awaited him. The next chapter saw him joining the ranks of the East
Tennessee band Zachery Bow, where he forged the unshakable foundations of rock.
Nashville beckoned Rick back, and in response, he forged
Stiff Kitty, a rock/metal ensemble that showcased his untamed creative spirit.
As the chapters turned, Rick's story ventured to the sunny landscapes of
Florida, where he became a vital part of Audio Vault, each note he played
resonating with the energy of a life lived for music.
Yet, life has its twists, and Rick faced a crucial
crossroad. The allure of music tugged at his heartstrings, but the toxic
tendrils of the industry whispered their doubts. A choice had to be made – a
choice that ultimately led him to a hiatus from the stage. But music, the
eternal flame, still burned within him. It was during this break that Rick
crafted and sold Planet Ear Candy studios in St. Charles, Missouri, a testament
to his unrelenting passion for his craft.
A mosaic of influences shaped Rick's musical identity, with
the likes of Hendrix, Vinnie Moore, Robben Ford, Gary Moore, and others
coloring his sonic palette. Sharing stages with some of the masters of Rock, infused
him with an understanding that music transcends notes; it's the soul behind
them that truly speaks.
With every performance, Rick seeks a profound connection, a
moment where his music resonates deeply within his audience. He doesn't strive
for perfection; he chases the elusive tones that stir hearts and minds. His
journey led him to be nominated for Song of the Year at the 2021 Josie Music
Awards, a testament to his exceptional songwriting talent.
Now, in the blazing light of 2023, Rick's journey continues
with even more triumphs – Song of the Year, Album of the Year, and Social Cause
Song of the Year awards nomination. Rick Drevet isn't just a musician; he's a
maestro of emotions, weaving tales through melodies that linger long after the
last note fades. Listen to his music, and you'll be transported on a journey
that echoes with the resounding power of passion and persistence.
MARK "BOOMER" PAPPALARDO
Unveiling the Rhythmic Odyssey of Mark "Boomer" Pappalardo: Journey into the Beat
Step into the world of rhythms where magic and melody intertwine, guided by the enigmatic pulse of a master percussionist - Mark "Boomer" Pappalardo. My journey began at the tender age of 5, when I first grasped the drumsticks, setting off a lifelong dance with the drums that would take me through a labyrinth of musical experiences.
Picture the scene: a young prodigy under the tutelage of the legendary Wally Warrick, original drummer of Tijuana Brass. Those formative years shaped me, and by the time I turned 10, I was sharing the stage with a jazz quartet, swaying to the bebop rhythm from the "Book of Standards." But my destiny took an unexpected turn when I crossed paths with Hank Weyland, a wise 72-year-old bassist who had stood alongside Benny Goodman himself.
Hank introduced me to the world of an 18-piece swing band led by Hal Donato, the very first saxophonist for Guy Lombardo. It was here that I faced the baptism of fire, deciphering intricate drum charts for the big band. These years (from 12 to 15) were an education like no other, honing my skills, teaching me the art of site reading, and leading me to join Hollywood's AFM Union at the tender age of 13 - one of the youngest to ever do so.
The journey continued to Capitol Records, where I became an on-call studio musician at just 16, my drumbeats etching their mark on countless recordings. But that wasn't all; I balanced my musical journey with the gridiron, orchestrating a halftime switch from football gear to a drum kit, leaving spectators in awe.
At 18, I emerged from high school to dive into the legendary MIT (Musicians Institute) in Hollywood, where I delved into the intricate world of percussion. My mentors included luminaries like Joe Porcaro and Steve Smith, who sculpted my craft and opened doors to high-profile collaborations. I rubbed shoulders with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Gene Simmons, and Teena Marie, as my beats echoed in the hallowed halls of iconic studios.
The Sunset Strip became my canvas from ages 22 to 30, as I painted the clubs with electrifying performances. Sharing stages with rock legends like Van Halen, Poison, and Motley Crue, my music reverberated through legendary venues, captivating audiences with every beat.
But the journey doesn't end in the City of Angels. I've taken my rhythm to the heartland, landing in St. Louis, a crossroads of musical flavors. From here, I've continued to write, record, and tour, my beats echoing through the streets of St. Louis and Nashville. The year 2019 became a milestone as I embarked on an immersive study with the great Todd Sucherman of Styx, a year that etched new layers into my rhythmic repertoire.
And now, a new chapter unfolds: Deacon Stone. The excitement bubbles as I join this ensemble of musical virtuosos, an unparalleled union of talent and creativity. With voices that sing stories and instruments that converse, this project promises to be a symphony of brilliance that will resonate across the globe.
So, buckle up, dear listener, for the sonic voyage of a lifetime. Let the mystery of my journey ignite your curiosity, and let the beats guide you towards the enchanting world of Mark "Boomer" Pappalardo. The stage is set, the rhythm awaits - come, let's dance to the heartbeat of my music.
DEAN BERRY
Step into the world of Dean Berry, a musical journeyman
whose life story weaves a tale of triumph, redemption, and soul-stirring
melodies. With a professional career spanning over 15 years, Dean's path has
been anything but ordinary. Imagine standing on stage, the anticipation
palpable, opening for some of the biggest names in the nation. The spotlight
shines on Dean as he delivers performances that leave audiences captivated and
yearning for more.
But life has its twists and turns, and Dean found himself ensnared
in the traps that fame and fortune can set. Amidst the vibrant backdrop of a
thriving club scene, he confronted the very snares that life so cunningly laid
out. Addiction crept in, slowly dimming the spotlight that once illuminated his
career. As the years unfolded, Dean faced an agonizing choice: support his
growing addictions or mend the bonds of family that were slipping through his
fingers.
Yet, within the notes of his music, within the timbre of his
voice, one could hear a story etched with experience and pain. Dean's playing
isn't just music; it's a living, breathing testament to the highs and lows that
have shaped him. The authenticity in every lyric, every chord, is undeniable.
Then, on a pivotal day, October 6th, 2006, Dean's journey
took a seismic shift. In a moment of surrender, he reached out to God, his
voice carrying a plea for redemption. The narrative took a radical turn,
leading him down a new path. Today, Dean stands as a beacon of hope, a living
testament to the power of transformation. No longer chasing the fleeting allure
of the club scene, he now serves as a senior Pastor at the Crossroads Worship
Center in southeastern Missouri.
But that's not the end of the story. Dean's musical odyssey
took an unexpected twist as he found himself fronting "Deacon Stone,"
a band comprising of musicians from his club days, each of them finding their
own redemption in faith. This isn't just a band; it's a force of nature that
meets listeners exactly where they are. Their testimony reverberates with a
resonance that touches hearts in the depths of despair, breathing new life into
the hopeless.
"I'd love to tell you a story of sex, drugs, and rock
'n' roll gone horribly right," Dean chuckles. His voice holds the echoes
of a man who has walked through the fire and emerged stronger on the other
side. And through it all, he has stood steadfast beside the love of his life,
Andrea. Their journey, a testament to resilience, is woven into the fabric of
Dean's music.
Together, they've weathered storms, navigated the highs and
lows, and raised six boys – an extraordinary testament to God's faithfulness.
In the symphony of Dean's life, every note tells a story, every melody holds a
memory. So, if you're seeking a tale that marries the allure of rock 'n' roll
with the power of redemption, let Dean Berry's voice be your guide and Deacon
Stone’ music your inspiration. Let his voice resonate within you, inviting you
to join the chorus of those who've found hope in the midst of life's chaos.