Mark – Drums/Band Leader
Mark spent more than six years on television in the Chattanooga market, and has been featured nationally and regionally as a reporter for FOX Sports. Yes, Mark has enjoyed a long sports broadcasting career, but he’s never strayed from his first love – Music. Mark got his first set of drums when he was three and has been playing ever since. During his career as a professional musician, Mark toured throughout the United States and Europe, performing just about every style of music.

Mark is proud to have toured with The United States Army Band and is a graduate of the US Military School of Music. He studied privately in Boston with Gary Chaffee, who’s former students also include Steve Smith (Journey, Vital Information), Vinnie Colaiuta (Sting, Michael McDonald) and JR Robinson, the most recorded drummer in history. Mark’s versatility as a drummer and percussionist isn’t limited to dance bands. He’s performed in the pit orchestra with the Carmel Valley Opera Company in California and has provided the backbeat for musicals such as “Grease,” “Candide,” and “Kismet.”

Now, Mark is loves laying down the backbeat for the band. And he’ll be more than happy to talk sports with you…Just wait ‘till the break, please!

Karen– Lead Vocals
Whether it’s a sultry ballad, funky dance tune or a classic from yesterday, Karen’s powerful voice fills the room with energy and emotion. Karen has performed with many of the area’s top groups, but is best known for her work as a “Singing Server” at the Chattanooga Choo Choo’s legendary Station House. For more than a decade, Karen has perfected her vocal versatility while performing for thousands of guests. Many of the world’s top entertainers have visited the Station House, and Karen has never failed to impress, earning the highest compliments from her professional contemporaries.

From the time she was a little girl, Karen knew that performing with a great band was in her future. But great bands start with great vocals, and Karen Phillips provides just that!

Landis – Lead Vocals
The band is truly fortunate to have the very talented Landis Batts as one of its lead vocalists. Landis, like Karen, has been a featured “Singing Server” at the Station House, where he crafted a voice that’s both silky and soulful. Landis will make you believe you’re listening to Luther Vandross, Marvin Gaye, Eddie Kendricks and others. The man is simply awesome! He is, without a doubt, on par with many of the most famous Motown and R&B singers of all time, but Landis has range beyond a traditional soul singer, and is equally at home with a jazz standard, disco hit, rock, funk or country tune. Landis has also performed at more than 100 weddings ceremonies, calling on his classical and gospel background.

Your event will not be complete without having Landis perform the Cab Calloway hit “Minnie the Moocher.” He brings down the house with this classic from the 30s, getting the audience involved and on its feet…Cheering for more!

Ralph – Piano/Keyboards/Vocals
Ralph has more than 20 years experience as a pianist and keyboard player. He’s performed in some of the world’s top music venues, and has taken the stage with many major artists, including The Oak Ridge Boys, Lee Greenwood, The Forrester Sisters, Curtis Day, Chely Wright, Sammy Kershaw and George Jones. As a touring professional, Ralph has been part of groups that have received national attention, including a 2nd place finish in the “True Value Country Talent Search,” appearing on “The Ralph Emory Show.”

Ralph studied music theory and composition at the Cadek Conservatory of Music under noted Artist-in-Residence Mario Abril. He also majored in music at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Ralph is blessed with “perfect pitch,” which is a key component in the bands overall musicality and versatility.

Johnny – Guitar/Vocals
Johnny has been performing throughout the Southeast since the mid 70s, playing guitar in original and rock and soul party bands. Johnny brings decades of experience and a strong rockin’ blues lead guitar presence to SRO. From his nights playing with various bands, including Blaze, Boy’s Life, Big Deal and Soul Survivor, Johnny has developed a smooth style, which helps push SRO (and the audience) to higher ground!

Frank– Bass Guitar
You can’t build a house without a solid foundation, and Frank is as solid as they come. Frank has been performing for nearly four decades, and has more playing and touring experience than just about anyone in the Southeast. Frank has performed with renowned artists such as Tall Order and EG Kight, but is best known for his work with legendary R&B star Jackie Wilson, who’s hits include (Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) “Higher and Higher,” "To Be Loved," "That's Why" and "I'll Be Satisfied," along with his top R&B and pop hit classic "Lonely Teardrops.”

Regardless of which style of music Frank is playing, you’ll always know he’s there – rock solid and filling the room from top to bottom with “bottom” and soul. When you hear them perform “Higher and Higher,” you’ll understand why Frank McGee was such an integral part of Jackie Wilson’s R&B sound.