Meet the Band
Backbeat Boulevard features an ensemble of musicians representing some of the top talent that the Golden Isles has to offer. This popular quartet can also perform in a variety of configurations, ranging from an intimate solo or duo, to an all out concert worthy band with horns, and are capable of accommodating any stage or venue.
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.
Stanley Pierce
Bassist, vocalist, and area favorite, Stanley Pierce has been entertaining coastal music lovers for decades. A working man’s working man, he is well known as a musician, songwriter, composer and studio player throughout the region and is instantly recognizable sporting his trademark cowboy hat.
Lanny Grammer
A working musician since high school, Lanny Grammer has played drums and toured with bands such as High Tymes, Doc Holiday, Otis Redding, Jr., Stillwater, Wall of Rhythm, Rhythm Method, and The Dirty Hairy’s. He has opened for bands such as Blue Oyster Cult, Blue’s Traveler, Razzy Bailey, and many, many more. In addition to playing and singing, Lanny also teaches percussion/drum set from beginner to professional levels. He is well-versed in all musical genres, and is currently playing drums with BackBeat Boulevard, in addition to working as a popular freelance drummer with numerous local acts.
Joey Smith
Talented saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist, Joey Smith, joins Backbeat Boulevard on many occasions, bringing his decades of experience to the stage. A veritable maestro on sax and flute, Joey has spent years touring, playing on cruise ships, contributing to studio sessions, and is a fixture on the Big Band circuit. He is skilled in jazz, rock, pop, blues and more.