Meet the Band

Jacqi-Michaels---World-Turning-BandJacqi Michaels – Jacqi’s musical journey has been quite diverse and exciting. Starring in Broadway shows such as City of Angels, ShowBoat and Song of Singapore to a recording contract with Atlantic Records to a coveted spot as a back up singer for Barbra Streisand on her Farewell Tour. When she is not in Nashville making awesome music with “World Turning” and her all of her amazing friends, she is travelling the world with her one woman show “Singing From The Soul”, a celebration of the iconic ladies of song. Life is good indeed 🙂

= = = = = = = =

Ralph-Graham---World-Turning-BandRalph Graham – Originally from New York, Ralph Graham, has lived in Nashville TN since 1985. Ralph has been involved with music since his early teens playing in bands in the New York area. Initially, having moved to Nashville to pursue a contemporary gospel writing and performing career, the opportunity to hit the road with a friend and New York artist, Billy Falcon, as his keyboardist and background vocalist became available…touring with such artists as Don Henley, Stevie Nicks and Richie Sambora. Featuring his bass playing, and vocals in “World Turning” is shaping up to be the most fun in many years…

= = = = = = = =

Drew Bourke is the drummer for World Turning Band, the premiere Fleetwood Mac tribute in the USADrew Bourke – Drew Bourke is a drummer / songwriter who moved from Denver to Nashville in 1987. He’s played a song or two with Lee Greenwood, Trisha Yearwood, Sticky Fingers, Tanya Tucker, and Gregg Allman. He performed for two years in Opryland USA’s Rock & Roll Show, has played on television at the Grand Ole Opry, and had one of his songs recorded by country music legend, Charley Pride. “As a kid, I lived in Detroit. I learned to play drums by playing along with records in an unfinished basement. The echo down there made my drums sound incredible, giving each drum time to breathe. Sure, each “hit” was important, but the space between each hit was more important. For me, making something feel good is most important. 60’s and 70’s funk grooves are still my favorite, but I did get caught-up in the 80’s corporate/glam/new wave bands. I love seeing people dance to a beat I’m helping create. I have been blessed to play with some of Nashville’s finest musicians, and World Turning Band is no exception.”

= = = = = = = =

Gary McGuire – Gary McGuire was born and raised in Middletown, Ohio.  He started playing guitar, with his brothers guidance, at the age of 12.  He moved to Nashville in 1985 to pursue his career in music while attending Belmont University.  After graduating, with a BS degree in Mathematics, he immediately started touring with Charly McClain.  He began touring with Sammy Kershaw in 1994 which continued for 22 years.  He has performed with country artists including Joe Diffie, Aaron Tippin & Little Texas.  Over the past several years he has toured with the “Little River Band”. Being able to perform with this legendary band, which inspired him to play guitar growing up, has been the highlight of his career.  He is looking forward to what his future may bring performing with “World Turning”.

= = = = = = = =

Beth Dean – Beth Dean is a newcomer to the Nashville music scene from Lexington, Ky. A Classically trained pianist from the age of 4, she immediately began her performance career. After earning her degree in Piano Performance from Eastern Kentucky University, she initially focused her musical talents as the music director at Crossroads Christian Church in Lexington. Ten years later, Beth opened Studio 88, an award winning teaching studio in the Lexington area dedicated to creating future musicians, where she spends most of her time coaching and training pianists and vocalists for the stage. Beth has performed in Lexington and the surrounding area, as a solo act and as lead singer and keyboardist for numerous bands. “One of my most rewarding performances was being asked to play for the Prince of Saudi Arabia at the castle in Versailles during the World Equestrian games.” Beth is also a songwriter, and has a CD entitled “Grow” which she performed with her band in various venues including “The Center” in her hometown of Somerset, Ky. Beth is working on her next album to be released next year and is honored to be playing “Christine” in World Turning and looking forward to future performances!

Comments:

“Beth Dean is the real deal. She is blessed with a strong and unique voice and also happens to be a superb pianist – a devastating combination! I wish there were more like her in our world.” JP Pennington of Exile

Versatility galore!!!”. Just two words I would use to describe Beth Dean’s music. She really can sing just about anything she lends her voice to. She delivers total believability with the vocal control of many of her predecessors. Beth possesses an uncanny ability to cover a wide musical spectrum, ranging from the sultry yet grittier R&B sounds of Bonnie Raitt, to the vocal power and angst of rocker Pat Benatar…and then she can take you to the opposite end of the spectrum with the more tender stylings with the likes of Natalie Cole! Beth Dean owns who she is…a singer songwriter and is a true artist. —Tim Chewning -Solo artist, musician, producer, Nashville TN

= = = = = = = =

John Mahoney – John Mahoney began his music career playing bars and clubs around Boston while in high school. He moved to Nashville in 1995 and continued performing, recording, and teaching guitar. John traveled extensively performing with such greats as The Platters, Ben E. King, Paul Revere and The Raiders, Mary Wilson and many more. Performing with Nashville Ballet, he brought the music of Hal Ketchum to life for Paul Vasterling’s Awaiting Redemption. John also wrote and recorded the opening music for Christopher Stuart’s ballet Under the Lights, a tribute to Johnny Cash. He taught for over ten years at World Music Nashville where his wide range of students included singer/songwriters with number one hits as well as Grammy winning producers. John continues to teach at his home studio and enjoys watching his students grow in their musical pursuits. “I’ve always loved Fleetwood Mac so when asked to join World Turning Band, I jumped at the chance. This is an amazing group of musicians and people, and it’s a pleasure to be playing with these guys!”

.