Zip Code Bios Updated 10/05/2008
Bios written and edited by Roland Cosby
Billy Beale Inspired by the Beatles and other groups from the 60's, Billy has grown to be an established R&B drummer who can really lay down a beat. He has been involved in music since his high school days where he started to learn about music and practice on his drums. During the 90s he played with a group called "the Strike". The band created a local hit song that was played on WAAF and WBCN. The name of the song was "kiss the Flame". He also worked with a band called "Midnight Special". He recorded a couple of tunes with this group called, "This time around"' and No not necessarily. Billy was part of the fund raising efforts of "Walk for Aids" in 1991 that included the production of a recording called "Walk for Life", which was made to raise fund for the event. The song was also performed live at "The Roxy" in Boston.
Leroy Champion Like many of R&B singers of our time Champ started singing in a gospel choir in church. Of course this experience would give him the foundational stuff that he would need to continue as a singer of this type of music. Champ worked with such notables as Herbie Lee. He also worked with the "fabulous Five" of Boston. The Fabulous Five included a band who featured R&B tunes of that era. the band played the throughout the north east region, including local clubs, college campuses, and ski lodges. Champ also recorded a gospel tune in 2002 called "Jesus Love". the song was recorded along with the Reverend Dr. Walker Champion and Jonathan Dubois Jr. Champ also worked with the "Swinging Impalas".
Shawn Shephers The inspiration and teaching of his grandmother, a classical pianist, has launched the creative spirit of this young and vibrant musician into a whole new world of music. Shawn has had the opportunity to dedicate a good potion of his life teaching himself the ins and outs of guitar playing. His style is certainly unique and will emerge as something special. After some experiences playing with local musicians and a lot of time studying on his own, it appears that he has learned enough to take the next step toward his musical goals. After his 7 year pilgrimage of self discovery, he has return to the Massachusetts area to continue developing his musical creativity.
Roland Cosby Roland has been playing bass since the mid 60's and has enjoyed the experience and relationships of the many musicians with which he has had a chance to play. Many of his musician friends have gone on to become very well known artists. Some of the individuals, groups and bands include , The Impacts, The Young Professionals, The Spices, Chubby Tavares, Sharon Jones, Bobby Greene, Tracy and the Playmates, Ronnie and the Emotions, Tiny Tavares, The Happy Campers, Roixanne Jones, The Ontclairs, Lincoln Street and may others. Although much of his musical life was shared with his goal of being a visual artist, he has still managed to stay involved with the musical world. Roland is a veteran of countless R&B gigs and sessions on bass. His melodic vocals are forged from years of application and constant honing of his craft.
Mark Slade His return to this area from Cleveland to this area is their lost and our gain. a young musician with a bit of experience under his belt has done much to bring a vibrant and youthful look to the band. He h as played with : Mike Calhoun (The Dazz Band) Alfonzo Walker (Tyler Perry Performer) .He has also worked with Avant, The Midnight Special, Chameleon, Horns and Things, Romiyo, Impulse, and Key 2 K. Some of his talents include Synth player/ programmer, Trombone, Drums, Singer, Songwriter and Performer. His knowledge and musical ideas will greatly enhance the flavor of the band. Not only does he play a number of instruments, he sings as well. His display of talent coupled with the variety and experience of the other band members will do much to entertain and astound their audiences. He is more than a willing participant and he clearly enjoys sharing his ideas with the rest of the band. It's hard to say how they could have done with out him, but blessings come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. It won't be long before they realize their potential with a combination of musicians like this.