NED BELLAU, DRUMS
Ned began playing the drums when he was 15 and hasn’t looked back since. As a leftie originally from Erlanger, KY, Ned has played in seven different bands over the years from his home state to Texas. His biggest musical influence over the years has been Steve Gadd. When he’s not keeping time behind the kit, Ned pays the bills as a Financial Services Analyst and IT Project Manager.
KATHY HALL, RHYTHM/LEAD GUITAR, VOCALS
Having grown up in a little town in Eastern Kentucky called Raven and growing up in a home full of musicians, Kathy Hall caught the music big at a young age. Her musical roots were planted in a foundation built on Bluegrass, Country, and Rock and Roll. Kathy cites her biggest musical influences as her parents, Russell and Hazel Hall. Kathy and her sister would later go on to start a band and play local venues and events around the eastern Kentucky region. She would soon develop an interest in writing music and went on to play at the Keith Whitley Tribute held in Nashville, Tennessee.
STEVE SLATES, BASS, VOCALS
Steve got his start in the music world in the 6th grade, when he first took lessons on the drums. In middle school, he was the head snare drum in the junior marching band. By the 8th grade, he traded his drum set in for a bass guitar so that he could play with a rock band. While in high school, he began singing as well. Steve came to Lexington in 1973 to go to UK and play football for the Wildcats. After graduating UK in 1977, Steve started his own business which he still runs today called Service by Slates. Steve has played in many bands over the years, from Ohio to Kentucky. His main influence was the 70’s rock bands and classic blues musicians like, BB King, Albert King, Gary Moore, Howlin’ Wolf, Chuck Berry, Buddy Guy, and a host of others. While his love for music has kept him playing throughout the years, performing to a live audience is his favorite part. He loves to watch the audience singing along or dancing to the music and says, “That makes all the hard work worth while!”
Roger Tackett, Lead guitar, Vocals Roger grew up in the picturesque hills of Johnson County, Kentucky, where his love for music began at an early age. The turning point for him was when he first heard “I Walk the Line” by Johnny Cash, which ignited a lifelong passion for music. At around 10 years old, Roger's uncle introduced him to the guitar, teaching him a few chords and songs. Roger's journey reflects a deep commitment to music and family, spanning from his early days in Kentucky to his experiences in Austin and back home again.