Veteran guitarist/singer/writer Roger Girke has been performing and recording steadily after hitting the nightclub circuit in 1975. By 1978 and at just 21 years old Roger scored a pivotal touring gig with Capitol/Ariola Recording Artists Pickins' who were legendary at the time for their funky fusion of blues and rock. Contacts made during that early success paved the way for a string of regional and national touring opportunities with diverse artists on Arista, Elektra and RCA records.
At the conclusion of twenty years of playing over 200+over the road dates each year as a first-call guitarist, Roger was ready to focus on his own projects. In 1995 Roger relocated to Delaware and immediately immersed himself in the vibrant blues scene in Delaware and nearby Philly and Baltimore and 1999 formed Roger Girke and The Funky Twisters (later changed to The Roger Girke Band)
Since 2001, Roger and his talented band have released three critically acclaimed CD’s with their second release “My Baby Loves That Stuff” winning an esteemed “Top 5 self-produced” accolade in the 2005 International Blues Challenge, which takes place every year in Memphis, TN. The band's third and recent CD “Shake It” has been nominated to the top six “Self Produced CD Releases” in the 2009 International Blues Challenge - where Roger and his band will also be competing in early February 2009. Additionally, The RGB were participants in the 2005 and 2006 International Blues Challenges.
Roger and his talented band continue to evolve each year with a solid mix of contemporary and traditional blues, The band's live performances feature strong original songs, combined with eclectic covers and energized performances all anchored by Roger's intense vocals, guitar style and personal energy. In addition to Roger, the band is anchored by Glenn Bickel on kyboards. a veteran of many Philadelphia blues and soul bands. Glenn's soulful piano and organ has been heard on hundreds of RGB performances over the years as well as on all three CD releases. Pat Bickel joined the band in 2005 and has established himself as one of the finest bassists on the scene today. Pat's an old soul in a young man's body and amazes all get to feel and hear his undeniable groove. Drummer David “Ernesto” Rainey also joined the band in 2005, bringing a wealth of jazz, R&B, funk and blues experience to the band. Dave continues to drive the band to new levels with his steady, fluid and informed style. In 2007 Roger finally talked Dave “Earlvis” Ward into bringing his toneful, understated harmonica chops to the band. Dave had fronted his own band for quite a few years and was the right person to round out the Roger Girke Band.
Great Job in Memphis guys... You had a good set in the finals... we thought you were definitely top 3... Keep on playing the blues... Hope to share the stage with you guys again in the future... it was a pleasure... Keep in touch...
The Roger Girke Band, Congratulations on being in the finals at the 25th International Blues Challenge in Memphis. AWESOME. I love the Blues. Thank you for being My Friend on My Space site filled with amazing links to Music (including over 400 in Blues Category), Spirit, Love and Peace. Love and Light to All, Anita aka Angelwingss7 in Canada.
Hey Roger.... "WITNESS...RELOADED" Reunites once again this Friday Night at "TOM'n'JERRY's" in Milford Park, Pa., (McDade Blvd. in Delaware County).
This is our first "real" public gig in 15 years!. Last April we played a full production reunion show that went so well, we decided to do some actual shows.
So....we've teamed up once again with our original Booking agency, "Apollo Artiists Attractions" in an effort to bring Witness back for some limited shows.
This Friday night is the first outing for us.
We're really hoping to see some old friends from the past....and maybe make some new friends as well! "Witness" was always known for their great presentation of Progressive Rock....and Witness...Reloaded" will be following in that great tradition.... featuring blocks of music by bands such as , YES, GENESIS, JETHRO TULL, THE WHO, and others.
Band members performing are: Michael LaBuono- Keyboards, Vocals Roy Altemus- Bass,Vocals Mitchell Schecter- Drums Flip Britton- Bass,Guitar,Flute, Sax, Vocals Marc Britton- Lead Guitar, Vocals
"Tom n Jerry's" is located at: 1006 MacDade Blvd. Milmont Park, PA 19033 (610) 586-1008
Admission to the show is $10.00 and the band starts around 9PM.
Hope to see you there!We know Mitch would be thrilled to see you! The Witness Reunion Team....for "WITNESS...RELOADED" !!!
Hey Roger, What's up bro. Its been a long time. Glad some of us are still kicking it out, We played at Sweads the week before ya. Miss the old days. Bushman/Jimmy (Kashmir)
WITNESS REUNION TICKET INFORMATION!!!!!! WITNESS REUNION NEWS!!! The date is set! SUNDAY,APRIL 20th...2PM to 7PM
Show tickets can now be purchased from Michael LaBuono. The tickets are $30 and include Beef and Beer. The party/show starts at 2pm and runs until 7pm, so come early! For any questions, you can Email Mike at: halamlb2@hotmail.com for information on purchasing tickets.
All Proceeds go to Delaware County Fireman's Fund
There will be only 200 tickets available. Tickets are also available directly from the Fire Hall. The Reunion will be held at: The Collingdale Fire House 510 Clifton Ave. Collingdale,Pa,19023 610-583-3040 All Proceeds will benefit for the Fireman's Memorial Fund.
The Witness band performing will be Michael LaBuono-Keyboards,Vocals Roy Altemus-Bass,Vocals Flip Britton-Bass,Guitar,Flute,Sax,Vocals Marc Britton,Lead Guitar,Sax,Vocals Mitchell Schecter-Drums,Percussion
Lightman Wizard JD, who was responsible for the beautiful light shows during our club run in the 70's and 80's,will be providing an amazing light show, and Marc Allan, one of our former soundmen,will be providing the sound!
Lots of Classic Rock will be performed! You remember...the difficult stuff...that only Witness could perform to the tee!
And....we do expect some "guest" appearances from other former members of the band through the years...and if anyone from the band's history shows up, we will get them onstage!!!!! We hope to see all of our old friends there!!!! And it's all for a wonderful cause.
Hey Roger... You still rock! One of my favorite periods of playing in "Pegasus" was when you were in the band. I hope to get out to see you play soon, and have a beer with you! Your ole band mate... Mitch
