Familiar Faces

THE PLAYERS

DONNELL "D-FLOYD" FLOYD - VOCALS/SAXOPHONE
Although he's played the saxophone since the fourth grade, he didn't fall in love with it until the 10th grade when he started attending Duke Ellington School of the Arts. That is also when he joined the infamous Rare Essence (RE). He performed with RE from 1983 to 2001. During his long stretch with RE, he recorded songs with such greats as Doug E. Fresh, Heavy D and Redman. Floyd is famously known for such classics as "Work the Walls", "Lock It" and "Overnight Scenario". In 2001, he decided it was time for him to spread his wings and to explore his talents to newer heights. He then spent the next decade with Familiar Faces (formerly 911), performing with national recording artists greats, such as Montell Jordan, Tony Terry, Fantasia, Marsha Ambrosius, and R. Kelly. With over two decades of experience under his belt, and major success with Familiar Faces, Floyd developed quite a reputation for himself as the premier performer in the D.C. Metro area, always bringing an explosive and entertaining performance. He grabbed the attention of the legendary, "Godfather of Go-Go", Chuck Brown and was invited to join the stage with his band, becoming a marquee performer at venues nationally, as well as internationally. As Floyd continues to please his fans musically and artistically, his ambition is to help develop new talent and be behind the push for music worthy of Grammy nominations..

DEREK "DP" PAIGE, SR - TRUMPET - VOCALS
Derek discovered his love for music in junior high school, which is when he first picked up a trumpet and where his GoGo career began with the Chance Band. When he went onto High School, he then joined Ayre Rayde and performed with them from 1982 to 1984. Derek then landed a highly sought after spot with the horn section with iconic band Rare Essence (RE). DP performed with RE for fifteen years when the band was at the height of its career. In 2000, DP left RE to form Familiar Faces (formerly 911) with two of his talented colleagues, D. Floyd and Eric "BoJack" Butler. Although DP appears to be the "quiet storm" of the group, his talent and his vision for the Familiar Faces family, brings a strong element that is instrumental to the band's chemistry.

KIMBERLY "MS. KIM" GRAHAM - VOCALS

FRANK "SCOOBY - AKA- FRANK SIRIUS" MARSHALL - VOCALS - LEAD GUITAR
Sure you are familiar with him - As a member of the famed trend-setting Go-Go band L!SSEN 2.0, the creator of the famous UHOH UHOHOH calls, penned the "godson of Go-Go", and one of the motivating factors of many of L!SSEN's sellout performances all over the east cost. His soulful, heart pounding melodies and his smooth vocal styles can not be denied. This amazing entertainer has also embarked on a solo career. He has emerged from the lead of an award winning band to become the next hottest solo artist to mount out of the DC metropolitan area. With his new solo album coming soon, fans are anxious and curious to hear what masterpieces he will create on his own. A combination of sounds from musical geniuses such as Donnie Hathaway, Marvin Gaye, and George Benson, he is undoubtedly the next musical superstar, crossing over R&B/Soul, Pop, and HipHop genres, and giving life to the forgotten acoustic sound. "The brightest star in the night sky overflowing with intrinsic luminosity". Meanwhile, you can catch Frank around the Washngton, D.C. area as the newest member of the GoGo group, Familiar Faces.

MICHELE "CHELE P" PERRY - VOCALS
Sure Michele Perry also known as Chel'e P. (pronounced Shelly P.) was born and raised in the District of Columbia.
Michele starting singing as soon as she could speak. At least that's what her mother says. When Michele was only 7 years old, her parents enrolled her at Calvin Coolidge Senior High School for violin classes. This is where she learned to read and write sheet music. What she really wanted to do was sing. She grew up listening to Jazz, Rhythm & Blues, Funk and Go Go Music. Her favorite Artists includes; Nancy Wilson, Jean Carne, Billie Holiday, Diana Ross, Natalie Cole, Angela Bofield, Jennifer Holiday, Joyce "Baby Jane" Kennedy, Patti LaBelle and Aretha Franklin, to name a few. She also studied Ballet and Modern Dance/Jazz for many years, starting at the age of 6 years old. Anything that dealt with "Performing Arts" she was all in.

While in Elementary school, she joined the Choir but was too shy to sing a solo song in front of others. That wouldn't last very long. One day while attending Jr. High School in Southeast DC. Michele was singing in the hallway after school and sparked the attention of her then math teacher Mr. George Parker a former member of the 1970's group called "Special Delivery". Mr. Parker took her under his wing and honed her talent. Teaching her the elements of vocals arrangements and harmony. As a teenager she performed in local city wide talent shows and also was a member of several local girl groups; they toured the world and was the opening act for several major artist. As a teen, Michele absolutely loved Go Go Music. She would sneak out of the house every weekend to see her favorite bands (Junk Yard, Rare Essence, EU and Trouble Funk) at the local skating rinks.

In 1996 Michele went to a night club in Pg County, Maryland; performing there was a group called "Myesha & The Hip Huggers". She was excited to see that women were making their mark in the DC Go Go Music Industry. She was very impressed. A few years later she decided to give Go Go Music a try; she was already apart of it's "Culture". Her very first band was called Total Package, after the group disbanded, she went on to a band called the All 4 U Band., that's when she became "Chel'e P." Next was a band called The Firm Project and then a band called Uncutt Band. While a member of the Uncutt Band in 2011, she was discovered by one of The Greatest in the Go Go Music Industry; The Legendary "Mr. Donnell Floyd Sr." The rest, is history in the making! You can find Michelle performing various nights of the week in the Washington D.C. area performing with Familiar Faces.

JASEN "O" HOLLAND - TRUMPET - VOCALS

MARQUIS "QUISY" MELVIN - VOCALS
Marquis Melvin was born to sing on February 15, 1987! When he was just two years old his family recognized his undeniable talent as he sang the ABC's like Luther Vandrous!   But, growing up to a single mother in the small city of Whiteville, NC hindered Marquis from entering the music industry at an early age. While traveling with family, Marquis had a brush with the famous BabyFace. He belted a few short tunes for BabyFace at his New York studio when he was just eleven years of age. However, they quickly lost contact due to the difficulty that would stem from his young age and limited ability to travel. For nearly 20 years Marquis has been invited to sing at weddings, church services, and countless other events.
In 2006 Marquis was an American Idol Hollywood contestant. He wowed Paula, Randy and Simon with a gospel, country and R&B song in Memphis TN where he was chosen out of more than 17,000 other people auditioning.   Since leaving the show, Marquis has put on sold out concerts for colleges including Appalachian state where he was an honor student and football player. Marquis turned down scholarships to Duke, West Virginia and left App State during the Idol with plans to pursue the completion of his college education online due to his burning passion to pour his soul into music.
From 2006 until now he has also been the lead singer for the popular DC go-go band Familiar Faces. Much of his time has been in the studio. Marquis has worked around the clock with various musicians and with producers from NC, NY, and Nashville, TN to bring you a great variety and unique sounds in his first album. "You're Gona Make It" Is the first single recorded as a tribute to his late mother Carolyn Denise Blanks-Jenkins. Marquis kept the mood of listeners in mind as he wrote this song.   "You're Gonna Make It" is intended to lift us up and help us to remember the good stuff that makes us smile when our love ones leave this earth. With a life-time of experience, preparation, and dedication Marquis Melvin is a vocalist, song writer and a performer ready to fulfill his destiny in the music industry!

MIKE ARNOLD - KEYBOARDS
Has been playing keys for approximately 5 years. He has shared the stage with several bands. OCC, 360, Raw Image, Northeast Groovers, and Familiar Faces to name a few. He has also shared the stage with such national artists as Fantasia, Ginuwine, Beanie Seagal, and Young Jock just 2 name a few. Mike is a very cool, fun loving, good dude to meet. You will currently find him performing weekly with the L!SSEN band in the Washington, DC area.

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MARCUS "MR. YOUNG" YOUNG - KEYBOARDS / VOCALS

"Baptized" in music before he was born, Mr. Young experienced the sound of music at an early age. He was raised in an environment surrounded by music under the influence of his father, Steven Young, a music teacher and an accomplished musician. It's no surprise that Marcus is a master at playing multiple instruments. Marcus is playing out what he was born to do - deliver
pure soulful melodic and inspirational songs infused with jazz rhythms, "Groove Jazz" as Marcus calls it. He's young, he's fresh, he's talented and stands at the threshold of becoming a musical icon. His invasion in the music industry has already begun. Just weeks away from releasing his debut CD, homegrown talent Marcus (known on stage as Mr. Young), is ready to take the music industry by force. A singer, songwriter, composer and musician, Marcus has been blessed to share his God-given talent with both national and international audiences. Marcus has worked with the likes of Chuck Brown, Kirk Whalum, Marcus Miller and Steven Hurd. He has expanded his musical horizons in Atlanta, Georgia; Houston, Texas; San Diego, California; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Nashville, Tennessee; and the island of Jamaica. He has toured Europe, Paris, Italy and Germany. Marcus says, "Music is a universal language. I want my music to have a mass appeal - overcoming age, language and religious barriers." Marcus is truly a one-man show. His debut project, entitled, "Sit Back, Relax, and Listen to the Music" and his second album "Moments in Time" are self produced, creative talents filled with instrumental sounds, uplifting vocals, and promotes an atmosphere that's easy on the ears and soft on the heart. Currently residing in Fort Washington, MD, Marcus studied briefly at Middle Tennessee State University and Prince George's Community College. He is a graduate of Friendly High School and attends Mt. Ennon Baptist Church located in Clinton, MD, where he serves as Director of the Youth Choir. Marcus arranges, composes and produces. He aspires to become a Minister of music. Until then, he continues to make his musical mark. Currently you can find Marcus several days a week playing with the very talented local DC band, Familiar Faces

NATHAN "NATE" JOHNSON - BASS GUITAR
Nathan T. Johnson was born in Washington, DC on November 18, 1983 to the late Michael T. and B. Ann Johnson. Nathan was educated in both the N.E section of Washington, DC and Glenarden, Maryland where he graduated from Duval Senor High School. At the age of nine, Nate picked up his first Bass guitar and since that day his life has never been the same. Nate spent most of his school days in the music hall where he learned to read music and developed musical technique. Throughout high school until present, Nathan has performed at many venues with different recording artist such as Carl Thomas, Marcus Young, Kim Burrell, and Richard Smallwood.
He currently holds the position of Music Director at Shabach Praise H.O.G where he worships weekly for Sabbath service. Nathan also plays main bass guitarist for many different local artists such as Reesa Renee, Konshens & State of Mind, Restin Jackson, and Familiar Faces in the Washington, DC area. He expresses a great passion for his music threw his long spent hours in practicing, performing and his strong will to produce.
Nate has also always had a zeal for cleaning. In 2001 he launched "Nathan Quality Touch" his first auto detailing business. Today his hands have made him a very successful man. Nathan's touch and superior detailing product has been use on the vehicles of NBA players Chris Whitney and Michael Sweetney. Nathan declares daily he lives with no regrets of his talent, just only wishing his parents could have lived a little longer to see him thrive.

ERIC "BOJACK" BUTLER - PERCUSSION
As one of the most sought after percussionists in the DC music scene, Eric "Bojack" Butcher has spent over 30 years in the game. In this span, he has played with such legendary bands as Little Benny and the Masters, Junkyard Band, Class Band, AM/FM and Rare Essence, with whom he currently plays. At the tender age of eight, Butcher took some old paint buckets and formed the group Trash Connection, which is where he started to perfect his craft.   He then was introduced to the congas and then as his talent progressed, Butcher placed his focus on the timbales and the roto tom. He joined Junkyard Band and enjoyed his first taste of national success. Junkyard was signed to Def Jam at the time and had two hit singles with "Sardines" and "The Word". Butcher went on to join Rare Essence in the early 1990�s and, somewhat of an experimentalist, wanted to add something to the traditional realm of percussion in Go-Go. He chose to spotlight the use of timbales to add a more pronounced Latin percussion flavor to the heavily percussive feel that Go-Go is known for. By adopting this method, Butcher was able to enhance the Latin sound that the Godfather of Go Go, Chuck Brown, brought from his days with Los Latinos. While with Rare Essence, he enjoyed success with "Overnight Scenario", which was liberally sampled by Jay-Z for his song "Do it Again (Put Ya Hands Up)", and two notable singles "Body Snatchers" and "Get Your Freak On", which both charted on the Billboard Top 100. As a co-founder of both 911 and Familiar Faces with Rare Essence band mates, Donnell Floyd and Derek Paige, Butcher and 911 gained notoriety with the hit "Brown and White". For the soundtrack to 1 City 1 Sound 1 Movement, Butcher collaborated with Rare Essence band mates Charles "Shorty Corleone" Garris and Milton "Go Go Mickey" Freeman on the highly anticipated track "The Congos vs. Timbales". There is no doubt that for the unforeseeable future Go-Go will most definitely benefit from Butcher�s contributions as a trendsetter on the DC music scene.

KENNY "QUICK" GROSS - DRUMS
Kenneth "kwick" Gross was born into a musical family on September 13, 1979 in Cheverly MD. His father Kenneth Gross Sr.(who played the bass around the metropolitan area) mainly inspired him to pursue a music career. Starting at the age of 4, he was introduced to the drums taught to him by his uncle Thomas Gross. Kenny started playing in church where he continued to expand his musical talent by playing the piano and organ. A top 40's band named "Expressions" took Kenny on as their full time drummer at the age of 13. Being the youngest member of the group pushed him ahead of his time musically.
While still a Sunday morning worshiper he continues to play R&B, Rock, Gospel, Go-Go, and Jazz music in the local area.Kwick has also had the honor of sharing the stage wit various artist such as: Keith Sweat, Anthony Hamilton, Jon B., Chico Debarge, Kanye West, Ginuwine, Loon, Candy Dulfer, Spur of the Moment, John Legend, Salt n Pepper, Doug e fresh, Jada Kiss, Marcus Johnson, Slick Rick and a few others. Kwick is best known for his deep pocket, musical fills and and his placement. He has played alongside some of the great drummers in D.C. such as: Blue eye Darrell, Tim Steels, Jay Williams, Milton Smith and Aaron Spears. Other than playing up and down the east coast, Kenny has played in Las Vegas, Cancun Mexico, Canada, and Tokyo so far. Kenny is currently the drummer for Chuck Brown(godfaher of Go-Go), Wale(hip-hop artist), Heaven Sent(Gospel group), Familiar Faces(Go-Go band), Godisheus(rock group), David Correy(pop artist) and at the Community of Hope AME Church. Please feel free to go to the good ole' you tube and check out these artist and see how kwick get's down weekly. Kenny has accomplished a lot so far in his career, but when asked what was his biggest thus far he said it wasgoing to a concert and watching one of his 4 drum students (10 year old Brendon Mills) perform in New York City. The best is yet to come for Kenny so stay tuned.

DELANO "PEANY" BOWDEN - CONGAS
Born and raised in Washington DC, graduated from Eastern High School. He was given the name Peany by his older brother and sisters, all in which influenced his childhood development. Peany developed his musical taste and interests, at an early age and it wasn't long after picking up a keyboard, through experimenting and teaching himself, followed by the interest in Latin percussion. Soon after his discovery of different rhythms and flipped it with his own conga playing "Doing it with Style and Grace" Peany was relatively influenced, by various old school go-go bands in the city(Rare Essence,Chuck Brown). However this gave him a wealth musical genre and culture to appreciate, not to say that he finds himself restricted to this genre. His musical ambition continued to grow, aided by childhood friends and junior high school mates, forming a neighborhood band, as his confidence grew and his style developed, he soon was a part of Optimystic Tribe in the year of 1991,after realizing that making music was a part of one of his main goals, he frequently filled in with Back Yard Band,thereafter joined the Lissen Band in the year of 2000, playing numerous of gigs several nights a week and showcase talent in various venues in different areas. Peany quickly making a note for his unique appeal, that has brought popularity and sounds with close fellow friends, in which whom presents musical marks in the industry (Frank Sirus "Scooby"and Yanna Crawley). Further, note a former member of the Crank Brothers. In addition, performing with 76 Degrees West Band, along with well-known, Saxophonist (Jimmy Sommers). Lissen Band is where Peany roots lie and there was plenty of offers, but he remained a loyal member of the Lissen Band. He had the privilege either to perform or share the stage with Raheem DeVaughn, Fantasia, Jada Kiss, Kanye West, Loon-Bad Boys, Slick Rick, Anthony Hamilton and Biz Markie. Peany is the epitome of a model percussionistand is just one example of an innovative performer "Turning LP's into his love life circle". His remarkable journey and groundbreaking multi conga techniques has had a powerful impact on countless drummers, percussionists and music lovers. Watch his solo, it's amazing! He is keen to point out that everything he listens to, directs his musical development. However he would say certainly to include (Sam Cooke, Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind and Fire, Kim Burrell, Giovanni Hidalgo) among his favorites. Peany creates an organic sound with a powerful foundation of rhythm and his easy going personality and focused nature helps him as a great percussionist.Finally, after honing his unique sound over recent years, he's now preparing for opportunity to increase, finding more demand and the continent in building appreciation for his sound,talent and loyal fans, along with a new approach for music and recording projects. You will never see Peany without his accessories (tuning wrench and towel), well prepared to master in the LP family.Quote: "Do what you say your gonna do, when you say your gonna do it" I am what, I am. You can currently find Peany performing several nights a week in the Washington, DC area with the GoGo group Familiar Faces.

OMARR OLIVER - ENGINEER

GREGORY "GOOGIE" BURTON - ENGINEER

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	DONNELL "D-FLOYD" FLOYD - VOCALS/SAXOPHONE Although he's played the saxophone since the fourth grade, he didn't fall in love with it until the 10th grade when he started attending Duke Ellington School of the Arts. That is also when he joined the infamous Rare Essence (RE). He performed with RE from 1983 to 2001. During his long stretch with RE, he recorded songs with such greats as Doug E. Fresh, Heavy D and Redman. Floyd is famously known for such classics as "Work the Walls", "Lock It" and "Overnight Scenario". In 2001, he decided it was time for him to spread his wings and to explore his talents to newer heights. He then spent the next decade with Familiar Faces (formerly 911), performing with national recording artists greats, such as Montell Jordan, Tony Terry, Fantasia, Marsha Ambrosius, and R. Kelly. With over two decades of experience under his belt, and major success with Familiar Faces, Floyd developed quite a reputation for himself as the premier performer in the D.C. Metro area, always bringing an explosive and entertaining performance. He grabbed the attention of the legendary, "Godfather of Go-Go", Chuck Brown and was invited to join the stage with his band, becoming a marquee performer at venues nationally, as well as internationally. As Floyd continues to please his fans musically and artistically, his ambition is to help develop new talent and be behind the push for music worthy of Grammy nominations..
	DEREK "DP" PAIGE, SR - TRUMPET - VOCALS Derek discovered his love for music in junior high school, which is when he first picked up a trumpet and where his GoGo career began with the Chance Band. When he went onto High School, he then joined Ayre Rayde and performed with them from 1982 to 1984. Derek then landed a highly sought after spot with the horn section with iconic band Rare Essence (RE). DP performed with RE for fifteen years when the band was at the height of its career. In 2000, DP left RE to form Familiar Faces (formerly 911) with two of his talented colleagues, D. Floyd and Eric "BoJack" Butler. Although DP appears to be the "quiet storm" of the group, his talent and his vision for the Familiar Faces family, brings a strong element that is instrumental to the band's chemistry.
	KIMBERLY "MS. KIM" GRAHAM - VOCALS
	FRANK "SCOOBY - AKA- FRANK SIRIUS" MARSHALL - VOCALS - LEAD GUITAR Sure you are familiar with him - As a member of the famed trend-setting Go-Go band L!SSEN 2.0, the creator of the famous UHOH UHOHOH calls, penned the "godson of Go-Go", and one of the motivating factors of many of L!SSEN's sellout performances all over the east cost. His soulful, heart pounding melodies and his smooth vocal styles can not be denied. This amazing entertainer has also embarked on a solo career. He has emerged from the lead of an award winning band to become the next hottest solo artist to mount out of the DC metropolitan area. With his new solo album coming soon, fans are anxious and curious to hear what masterpieces he will create on his own. A combination of sounds from musical geniuses such as Donnie Hathaway, Marvin Gaye, and George Benson, he is undoubtedly the next musical superstar, crossing over R&B/Soul, Pop, and HipHop genres, and giving life to the forgotten acoustic sound. "The brightest star in the night sky overflowing with intrinsic luminosity". Meanwhile, you can catch Frank around the Washngton, D.C. area as the newest member of the GoGo group, Familiar Faces.
	MICHELE "CHELE P" PERRY - VOCALS Sure Michele Perry also known as Chel'e P. (pronounced Shelly P.) was born and raised in the District of Columbia. Michele starting singing as soon as she could speak. At least that's what her mother says. When Michele was only 7 years old, her parents enrolled her at Calvin Coolidge Senior High School for violin classes. This is where she learned to read and write sheet music. What she really wanted to do was sing. She grew up listening to Jazz, Rhythm & Blues, Funk and Go Go Music. Her favorite Artists includes; Nancy Wilson, Jean Carne, Billie Holiday, Diana Ross, Natalie Cole, Angela Bofield, Jennifer Holiday, Joyce "Baby Jane" Kennedy, Patti LaBelle and Aretha Franklin, to name a few. She also studied Ballet and Modern Dance/Jazz for many years, starting at the age of 6 years old. Anything that dealt with "Performing Arts" she was all in. While in Elementary school, she joined the Choir but was too shy to sing a solo song in front of others. That wouldn't last very long. One day while attending Jr. High School in Southeast DC. Michele was singing in the hallway after school and sparked the attention of her then math teacher Mr. George Parker a former member of the 1970's group called "Special Delivery". Mr. Parker took her under his wing and honed her talent. Teaching her the elements of vocals arrangements and harmony. As a teenager she performed in local city wide talent shows and also was a member of several local girl groups; they toured the world and was the opening act for several major artist. As a teen, Michele absolutely loved Go Go Music. She would sneak out of the house every weekend to see her favorite bands (Junk Yard, Rare Essence, EU and Trouble Funk) at the local skating rinks. In 1996 Michele went to a night club in Pg County, Maryland; performing there was a group called "Myesha & The Hip Huggers". She was excited to see that women were making their mark in the DC Go Go Music Industry. She was very impressed. A few years later she decided to give Go Go Music a try; she was already apart of it's "Culture". Her very first band was called Total Package, after the group disbanded, she went on to a band called the All 4 U Band., that's when she became "Chel'e P." Next was a band called The Firm Project and then a band called Uncutt Band. While a member of the Uncutt Band in 2011, she was discovered by one of The Greatest in the Go Go Music Industry; The Legendary "Mr. Donnell Floyd Sr." The rest, is history in the making! You can find Michelle performing various nights of the week in the Washington D.C. area performing with Familiar Faces.
	JASEN "O" HOLLAND - TRUMPET - VOCALS
	MARQUIS "QUISY" MELVIN - VOCALS Marquis Melvin was born to sing on February 15, 1987! When he was just two years old his family recognized his undeniable talent as he sang the ABC's like Luther Vandrous! But, growing up to a single mother in the small city of Whiteville, NC hindered Marquis from entering the music industry at an early age. While traveling with family, Marquis had a brush with the famous BabyFace. He belted a few short tunes for BabyFace at his New York studio when he was just eleven years of age. However, they quickly lost contact due to the difficulty that would stem from his young age and limited ability to travel. For nearly 20 years Marquis has been invited to sing at weddings, church services, and countless other events. In 2006 Marquis was an American Idol Hollywood contestant. He wowed Paula, Randy and Simon with a gospel, country and R&B song in Memphis TN where he was chosen out of more than 17,000 other people auditioning. Since leaving the show, Marquis has put on sold out concerts for colleges including Appalachian state where he was an honor student and football player. Marquis turned down scholarships to Duke, West Virginia and left App State during the Idol with plans to pursue the completion of his college education online due to his burning passion to pour his soul into music. From 2006 until now he has also been the lead singer for the popular DC go-go band Familiar Faces. Much of his time has been in the studio. Marquis has worked around the clock with various musicians and with producers from NC, NY, and Nashville, TN to bring you a great variety and unique sounds in his first album. "You're Gona Make It" Is the first single recorded as a tribute to his late mother Carolyn Denise Blanks-Jenkins. Marquis kept the mood of listeners in mind as he wrote this song. "You're Gonna Make It" is intended to lift us up and help us to remember the good stuff that makes us smile when our love ones leave this earth. With a life-time of experience, preparation, and dedication Marquis Melvin is a vocalist, song writer and a performer ready to fulfill his destiny in the music industry!
	MIKE ARNOLD - KEYBOARDS Has been playing keys for approximately 5 years. He has shared the stage with several bands. OCC, 360, Raw Image, Northeast Groovers, and Familiar Faces to name a few. He has also shared the stage with such national artists as Fantasia, Ginuwine, Beanie Seagal, and Young Jock just 2 name a few. Mike is a very cool, fun loving, good dude to meet. You will currently find him performing weekly with the L!SSEN band in the Washington, DC area. .
	MARCUS "MR. YOUNG" YOUNG - KEYBOARDS / VOCALS "Baptized" in music before he was born, Mr. Young experienced the sound of music at an early age. He was raised in an environment surrounded by music under the influence of his father, Steven Young, a music teacher and an accomplished musician. It's no surprise that Marcus is a master at playing multiple instruments. Marcus is playing out what he was born to do - deliver pure soulful melodic and inspirational songs infused with jazz rhythms, "Groove Jazz" as Marcus calls it. He's young, he's fresh, he's talented and stands at the threshold of becoming a musical icon. His invasion in the music industry has already begun. Just weeks away from releasing his debut CD, homegrown talent Marcus (known on stage as Mr. Young), is ready to take the music industry by force. A singer, songwriter, composer and musician, Marcus has been blessed to share his God-given talent with both national and international audiences. Marcus has worked with the likes of Chuck Brown, Kirk Whalum, Marcus Miller and Steven Hurd. He has expanded his musical horizons in Atlanta, Georgia; Houston, Texas; San Diego, California; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Nashville, Tennessee; and the island of Jamaica. He has toured Europe, Paris, Italy and Germany. Marcus says, "Music is a universal language. I want my music to have a mass appeal - overcoming age, language and religious barriers." Marcus is truly a one-man show. His debut project, entitled, "Sit Back, Relax, and Listen to the Music" and his second album "Moments in Time" are self produced, creative talents filled with instrumental sounds, uplifting vocals, and promotes an atmosphere that's easy on the ears and soft on the heart. Currently residing in Fort Washington, MD, Marcus studied briefly at Middle Tennessee State University and Prince George's Community College. He is a graduate of Friendly High School and attends Mt. Ennon Baptist Church located in Clinton, MD, where he serves as Director of the Youth Choir. Marcus arranges, composes and produces. He aspires to become a Minister of music. Until then, he continues to make his musical mark. Currently you can find Marcus several days a week playing with the very talented local DC band, Familiar Faces
	NATHAN "NATE" JOHNSON - BASS GUITAR Nathan T. Johnson was born in Washington, DC on November 18, 1983 to the late Michael T. and B. Ann Johnson. Nathan was educated in both the N.E section of Washington, DC and Glenarden, Maryland where he graduated from Duval Senor High School. At the age of nine, Nate picked up his first Bass guitar and since that day his life has never been the same. Nate spent most of his school days in the music hall where he learned to read music and developed musical technique. Throughout high school until present, Nathan has performed at many venues with different recording artist such as Carl Thomas, Marcus Young, Kim Burrell, and Richard Smallwood. He currently holds the position of Music Director at Shabach Praise H.O.G where he worships weekly for Sabbath service. Nathan also plays main bass guitarist for many different local artists such as Reesa Renee, Konshens & State of Mind, Restin Jackson, and Familiar Faces in the Washington, DC area. He expresses a great passion for his music threw his long spent hours in practicing, performing and his strong will to produce. Nate has also always had a zeal for cleaning. In 2001 he launched "Nathan Quality Touch" his first auto detailing business. Today his hands have made him a very successful man. Nathan's touch and superior detailing product has been use on the vehicles of NBA players Chris Whitney and Michael Sweetney. Nathan declares daily he lives with no regrets of his talent, just only wishing his parents could have lived a little longer to see him thrive.
	ERIC "BOJACK" BUTLER - PERCUSSION As one of the most sought after percussionists in the DC music scene, Eric "Bojack" Butcher has spent over 30 years in the game. In this span, he has played with such legendary bands as Little Benny and the Masters, Junkyard Band, Class Band, AM/FM and Rare Essence, with whom he currently plays. At the tender age of eight, Butcher took some old paint buckets and formed the group Trash Connection, which is where he started to perfect his craft. He then was introduced to the congas and then as his talent progressed, Butcher placed his focus on the timbales and the roto tom. He joined Junkyard Band and enjoyed his first taste of national success. Junkyard was signed to Def Jam at the time and had two hit singles with "Sardines" and "The Word". Butcher went on to join Rare Essence in the early 1990�s and, somewhat of an experimentalist, wanted to add something to the traditional realm of percussion in Go-Go. He chose to spotlight the use of timbales to add a more pronounced Latin percussion flavor to the heavily percussive feel that Go-Go is known for. By adopting this method, Butcher was able to enhance the Latin sound that the Godfather of Go Go, Chuck Brown, brought from his days with Los Latinos. While with Rare Essence, he enjoyed success with "Overnight Scenario", which was liberally sampled by Jay-Z for his song "Do it Again (Put Ya Hands Up)", and two notable singles "Body Snatchers" and "Get Your Freak On", which both charted on the Billboard Top 100. As a co-founder of both 911 and Familiar Faces with Rare Essence band mates, Donnell Floyd and Derek Paige, Butcher and 911 gained notoriety with the hit "Brown and White". For the soundtrack to 1 City 1 Sound 1 Movement, Butcher collaborated with Rare Essence band mates Charles "Shorty Corleone" Garris and Milton "Go Go Mickey" Freeman on the highly anticipated track "The Congos vs. Timbales". There is no doubt that for the unforeseeable future Go-Go will most definitely benefit from Butcher�s contributions as a trendsetter on the DC music scene.
	KENNY "QUICK" GROSS - DRUMS Kenneth "kwick" Gross was born into a musical family on September 13, 1979 in Cheverly MD. His father Kenneth Gross Sr.(who played the bass around the metropolitan area) mainly inspired him to pursue a music career. Starting at the age of 4, he was introduced to the drums taught to him by his uncle Thomas Gross. Kenny started playing in church where he continued to expand his musical talent by playing the piano and organ. A top 40's band named "Expressions" took Kenny on as their full time drummer at the age of 13. Being the youngest member of the group pushed him ahead of his time musically. While still a Sunday morning worshiper he continues to play R&B, Rock, Gospel, Go-Go, and Jazz music in the local area.Kwick has also had the honor of sharing the stage wit various artist such as: Keith Sweat, Anthony Hamilton, Jon B., Chico Debarge, Kanye West, Ginuwine, Loon, Candy Dulfer, Spur of the Moment, John Legend, Salt n Pepper, Doug e fresh, Jada Kiss, Marcus Johnson, Slick Rick and a few others. Kwick is best known for his deep pocket, musical fills and and his placement. He has played alongside some of the great drummers in D.C. such as: Blue eye Darrell, Tim Steels, Jay Williams, Milton Smith and Aaron Spears. Other than playing up and down the east coast, Kenny has played in Las Vegas, Cancun Mexico, Canada, and Tokyo so far. Kenny is currently the drummer for Chuck Brown(godfaher of Go-Go), Wale(hip-hop artist), Heaven Sent(Gospel group), Familiar Faces(Go-Go band), Godisheus(rock group), David Correy(pop artist) and at the Community of Hope AME Church. Please feel free to go to the good ole' you tube and check out these artist and see how kwick get's down weekly. Kenny has accomplished a lot so far in his career, but when asked what was his biggest thus far he said it wasgoing to a concert and watching one of his 4 drum students (10 year old Brendon Mills) perform in New York City. The best is yet to come for Kenny so stay tuned.
	DELANO "PEANY" BOWDEN - CONGAS Born and raised in Washington DC, graduated from Eastern High School. He was given the name Peany by his older brother and sisters, all in which influenced his childhood development. Peany developed his musical taste and interests, at an early age and it wasn't long after picking up a keyboard, through experimenting and teaching himself, followed by the interest in Latin percussion. Soon after his discovery of different rhythms and flipped it with his own conga playing "Doing it with Style and Grace" Peany was relatively influenced, by various old school go-go bands in the city(Rare Essence,Chuck Brown). However this gave him a wealth musical genre and culture to appreciate, not to say that he finds himself restricted to this genre. His musical ambition continued to grow, aided by childhood friends and junior high school mates, forming a neighborhood band, as his confidence grew and his style developed, he soon was a part of Optimystic Tribe in the year of 1991,after realizing that making music was a part of one of his main goals, he frequently filled in with Back Yard Band,thereafter joined the Lissen Band in the year of 2000, playing numerous of gigs several nights a week and showcase talent in various venues in different areas. Peany quickly making a note for his unique appeal, that has brought popularity and sounds with close fellow friends, in which whom presents musical marks in the industry (Frank Sirus "Scooby"and Yanna Crawley). Further, note a former member of the Crank Brothers. In addition, performing with 76 Degrees West Band, along with well-known, Saxophonist (Jimmy Sommers). Lissen Band is where Peany roots lie and there was plenty of offers, but he remained a loyal member of the Lissen Band. He had the privilege either to perform or share the stage with Raheem DeVaughn, Fantasia, Jada Kiss, Kanye West, Loon-Bad Boys, Slick Rick, Anthony Hamilton and Biz Markie. Peany is the epitome of a model percussionistand is just one example of an innovative performer "Turning LP's into his love life circle". His remarkable journey and groundbreaking multi conga techniques has had a powerful impact on countless drummers, percussionists and music lovers. Watch his solo, it's amazing! He is keen to point out that everything he listens to, directs his musical development. However he would say certainly to include (Sam Cooke, Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind and Fire, Kim Burrell, Giovanni Hidalgo) among his favorites. Peany creates an organic sound with a powerful foundation of rhythm and his easy going personality and focused nature helps him as a great percussionist.Finally, after honing his unique sound over recent years, he's now preparing for opportunity to increase, finding more demand and the continent in building appreciation for his sound,talent and loyal fans, along with a new approach for music and recording projects. You will never see Peany without his accessories (tuning wrench and towel), well prepared to master in the LP family.Quote: "Do what you say your gonna do, when you say your gonna do it" I am what, I am. You can currently find Peany performing several nights a week in the Washington, DC area with the GoGo group Familiar Faces.
	OMARR OLIVER - ENGINEER
	GREGORY "GOOGIE" BURTON - ENGINEER