Meet the Band
Joey Thigpen
Well known throughout the region for his soaring vocals and prowess on the guitar, Joey Thigpen has been gigging on stages across the Southeast for over 35 years. As a member of a number of popular regional dance bands such as “The Buttercats”, “The Loose Skrews”, and “Shaded Image” – as well as a stint with gospel favorite “Patmos Vision” – Joey’s wide ranging vocal abilities have lulled audiences for decades. Known as a “singer’s singer”, he has coached and mentored numerous area vocalists – and in addition to his duties as lead singer and one of the lead guitarists for “BackBeat Boulevard” – he can be found many nights performing as part of an acoustic duo with Keith Dean (below), or as a solo act in local clubs.
Keith Dean
Keith Dean is a 30 year veteran of stage and studio. He toured extensively as a road musician throughout the US and Europe, was a former lead guitarist for country artist Jason Aldean and blues artist EG Kight, and has shared stages with Little Big Town, Wild Rose, Winger, Confederate Railroad, The Tams, The Drifters and more. His skills as a lead guitarist have drawn crowds for many years. He is a published songwriter, owned and operated a successful music store, has instructed numerous students in guitar, and is founder of AdultGuitarLessons.com. When not touring with “BackBeat Boulevard” he can be found performing in an acoustic duo show with Joey Thigpen (above), or as an in-demand “hired gun” with a number of regional acts.
Pete Jock
Multi-instrumentalist and Berklee trained, Pete Jock, is an in-demand stage and session musician lending his musical skills to many local and regional groups. Having toured the U.S. extensively, Pete brings his prowess on the bass guitar to Backbeat Boulevard, but is also a well accomplished guitarist and keyboardist.
Joey Smith
Professional saxophonist Joey Smith is the most recent addition to the band bringing Backbeat Boulevard to a whole new level with his blazing prowess on the horn. He has experience as a world traveling musician, and a touring musician in the United States. He has played with many local, national, and international bands. He doubles on flute, and clarinet, and background keyboard.
Rick Joyce
Drummer, percussionist, and all around “groove monster”, Rick Joyce brings to the table his many years as a touring professional, and can be seen on many stages throughout the region as a highly sought out drummer for numerous area acts and artists.