Use this page as an EPK (Electronic Press Kit) to help promote our upcoming music events. You're welcome to download the resume text and images below for media use, entertainment guides and your Facebook pages.

GERRY'S BIO & EXPERIENCE

MY MUSICAL REPERTOIRE
My goal as a songman and entertainer is to offer a pleasing musical experience and atmosphere for the club owner and my audience. My slogan "Songs of your life" reflects my belief that people have the greatest affection for the music they grew up with! That's been my observation, learned from years of playing music to a live audience.  

If people are foot-tapping, mouthing the words or moving to the music, I know I've succeeded in my goal! Sure, I'll play a special request or unfamiliar tune that offers special meaning or impressive technique. But, I've found that people really do, as composers Rogers & Hart wrote, "like to recognize the tune." 

Variety and song selection are also important. With a playlist of over 300 great songs,  I've played pop music for restaurants, songbook standards at jazz clubs and even roots/country tunes for honky tonks!  But, I'm most proud of the quality of the songs I sing rather than the genre. It's no coincidence that Ray Charles, Duke Ellington and Hank Williams all were quoted as saying "there's only 2 types of music - GOOD and BAD"!   

MY MUSICAL EXPERIENCE
My youthful dreams of being a rock star never happened!  Instead, a career in media led me first to radio, then newspapers and web development in a journey to 8 states stretched from Michigan to California. From radio, I gained a knowledge of hit songs. From print & online, a sense for marketing. Each new job and town gave me a chance to hear and play regional styles; gigging part time as a lounge singer, restaurant musician or member of a local band. Now that I've returned to Oregon, I'm having a great time playing music and working to give venue owners the edge that attracts customers.
   
MY MUSICAL STYLE 
Audiences often comment on my guitar playing and come to watch my technique. This "Fingerstyle" playing was first introduced by Chet Atkins and then popularized with bossa nova, country and jazz players. However, it’s now common among rock guitarists, too. Fingerstyle allows me to do both chords and melody at the same time without multiple musicians. For small venues or intimate settings, it's perfect.  

My vocals are inspired by legendary singer/songwriters and groups with my emphasis on replicating their original arrangements… Pop, Jazz, Folk, Rock, R&B and C&W. Requests range from songs by artists like James Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Beatles, Stevie Wonder, Eagles, Ray Charles and Willie Nelson. 

For larger occasions, a bassist and drummer add to the excitement. I also like to include the saxophone, the instrument that defines Jazz and is essential to Rock. When the venue offers a dance floor, expanding from one musician keeps an audience moving! I use some of the many talented Oregon musicians and friends I know... to form a sound certain to make your event a success.  

Please take a listen to my YouTube videos to hear my solo work. If you want a larger ensemble, I'll arrange an audition. You can call or use the contact page of this website to learn more.  

Thank You,  

Gerry Grooms