Henny & the Versa J’s was formed in 1972 but its true origin dates back much farther than that. Henny Jasiewicz, the leader of the Versa J’s, began playing trumpet 51 years ago in a band called the Bell Hops along with Frank Gibala, who still plays clarinet and sax alongside Henny today. Besides Henny and Frank, Henny's son Butchie (whose name incidentally is also Henry Jasiewicz) joined the Versa J’s on drums in 1985.
Throughout the years, although the members of the Versa J's has changed, the mission has always been the same: Play Polka music for the people.
In 1995, Randy Koslosky joined the Versa J’s with his accordion, vocals and songwriting ability. In 2007, Steve Gibala, Frank's Son joined the band full time and plays clarinet and adds on vocals. Also in 2007, Chris Bogdon also joined full time and plays concertina, trumpet and bass for the band. In 2008, Erik Bogdon joined full time and plays bass, concertina and clarinet for the Versa J's.
After 33 years and 8 recordings later, the band is still growing and getting stronger.
Richard and I Janet would like permission to do your song "Restless, restless till I rest with you" with a small change of adding Jesus name to the song.... Someday please come to meet us...we want to do a fundraiser with you playing music someday. The ministry is called God Heals: Theotherapy. We minister to the disadvantaged and incarcerated in the Mon Valley. Then the world... The ministry (holds free seminars at Elizabeth Grand Theater March 28 9:00 am "Family Systems" is the topic). Please come to meet us. We love your CD. When are you playing live locally? janetjam77@yahoo.com
