Mark Stich - Keyboards
Mark fell in love with the piano at the age of 7 after hearing his uncle play a few blues licks on the family’s Steinway grand. He received his first Fender Rhodes electric piano and amp at age 11 and began playing in local bands at 13. A New York native, Mark attended the famous Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, where he studied jazz performance, composition, and theory. After playing local gigs in and around the Boston area, and a short stint playing music in Montreal, in 1982 Mark decided to seek his fortunes in the Golden State. In addition to teaching piano and running a successful piano tuning business in Northern California, Mark performed with several local bands and artists, including vocalist and songwriter Rosie Gains who soon after joined and recorded with Prince’s group “The New Power Generation”. Mark also did studio recording work in San Francisco and Los Angeles, including sessions with famed guitarist Ronnie Montrose who was producing various local artists. In 1989 Mark joined vocalist Angela Bofil as keyboardist for the “The Good Friends Tour” a 10 week cross-country stint which featured Jonathon Butler and Saxophonist Najee’s groups as well. Mark also wrote a regular featured column called “Street Smarts” in Keyboard Magazine where he shared tips and advice for live musicians.
Currently, in addition to his keyboard work with Tony Saunders, Mark performs regularly as pianist for the Grande Theater “Artists In Residence”; Tracy Community Jazz Ensemble as well as keyboards for smooth / R&B bands “Rhapsody” and “D-Hook”.
John Mitchell - Drums
John Mitchell is a charismatic and energetic drummer that has been inspired by gospel music ranging from the late 80’s and the late 90’s. He has been inspired by a wide range of arsts from the 90’s which has made him into the drummer he is today. Grooving and staying the pocket is what makes him stand out amongst most drummers in the industry. Having the pleasure of backing up R&B legend The Supremes, Gospel legend Ricky Dillard, and currently playing with Tony Saunders. The joy he brings with his smile and posive energy is what makes him unique.
Daryl (Debo) Bishop - Bass
A San Francisco Bay Area native, Debo began his musical journey at the age of 8, playing trumpet and earning music honors throughout his school years. As a teen, he was inspired by the Phenix Horns, the great horn section of his favorite group, EWF. He began playing with many of the top local R&B, pop, and funk cover bands, which included notable musician, Levi Seacer Jr. (Sheila E. and Prince). Debo has had the honor of playing with the likes of Billy Preston, Bay Area legends Freddie Stewart Stone (Sly and the Family Stone) and gospel singer, Dorothy Morrison (“Oh Happy Day”).
Debo dabbled with several different instruments but it wasn’t until 1982, after hearing the bass lines on the album, “Asphalt Gardens” of the great smooth jazz saxophonist, George Howard, that he really took hold of the electric bass. Since then, he has been playing with many contemporary jazz musicians throughout northern California. He was also the bassist and lead vocalist for the popular Latin rock group, Los Cochinos. Currently he is the bassist for the two-time Emmy Award winning bassist, Tony Saunders, and is the music director for the Marvin Gaye tribute band, Klassic Man & The Klique.
Ashley Jemison - Saxophone
ASHLEY JEMISON is bringing a new school vibe to smooth jazz. Covering the current styles of R&B and pop music of today while adding a unique improvisational twist leaves her audiences wanting more.
With a mother and father who were musicians it was inevitable that Ashley would follow in their footsteps. Working tirelessly to be at her own personal best she excelled quickly at playing the saxophone. In pursuit of her dream of playing music she continued her journey through studying music at California State University Los Angeles where she received her Bachelor of Arts Degree. Despite studying music her career was not fully realized until after her battle with Breast Cancer. Experiencing such a life changing diagnoses Ashley made it her mission that when she made it to the other side of the battle, she would wholeheartedly pursue her dream of playing music for the world.
Since making her career shift she has been invited back for performances spanning from the Bay Area to Los Angeles. With the back drop of smooth and soulful saxophone tone of Ashley easily takes the ambience to a new level. Provoking great emotion with every note she plays, it is guaranteed that you will not leave an Ashley Jemison performance without feeling moved to dance, smile or even to tears. Uplifting the spirits and moving people is what truly pushes Ashley to give performances of a lifetime.
Peter Fujii - Guitar
Hailing from Detroit but nurtured in the cultural mix of the San Francisco Bay Area, Peter Fujii, the extraordinary guitarist, embodies a delightful medley of musical influences.
With a diverse background spanning Blues, Jazz, Rock, Latin, African, Classical, and the distinctive Oaktown funk, his music seamlessly fuses and transcends traditional genre boundaries. Now Peter Fujii hopes that this kind of world fusion will help bring the hearts and minds of people together.
Mr. Fujii has been blessed to work with: EsthHailing from Detroit but nurtured in the cultural mix of the San Francisco Bay Area, Peter Fujii, the extraordinary guitarist, embodies a delightful medley of musical influences.
With a diverse background spanning Blues, Jazz, Rock, Latin, African, Classical, and the distinctive Oaktown funk, his music seamlessly fuses and transcends traditional genre boundaries. Now Peter Fujii hopes that this kind of world fusion will help bring the hearts and minds of people together.
Mr. Fujii has been blessed to work with: Estter Phillips, Pharaoh Sanders, Hank Crawford, Steve Ferrone, David Garribaldi, Hilton Ruiz, Giovanni Hidalgo, Sikiru Adupoju, James Levi, Rusty Allen, Dramatics, Chirs Issac, producer Quincy Jones, Bernard Edwards, George Lucas, Thomas Dolby, and on the "Howard the Duck" movie just to name a few.
"Victims of the Groove" is the latest project and currently playing with Tony Saunders Group.