About the band
Strumble Head is a West Michigan cover band doing music from the 60's, 70's, and 80's. The band is known for playing a wide assortment of well-known hits using tight harmonies and superior musicianship to produce a sound that is “just like the radio”, to quote a fan. Unlike the radio however, Strumble Head puts on a show that gets everybody dancing and singing along. We make any party more fun! When practically every song is a "sing along" song, you can't help but get wrapped up in it and hit the dance floor. Now you can enjoy them too! Click the Contacts link to book Strumble Head for your next party.
The Band:
Strumble Head is made up of experienced musicians who all take an active role in the creative direction by bringing their particular areas of expertise and quality musicianship to every aspect of the band. Members are:
Tom Shipp - Drums: Tom began playing percussion in the 4th grade and after 17 years took a long break from playing the drums. He has a wide range of musical influences from Blood, Sweat & Tears, Steely Dan, and the Doobie Brothers, to Spyro Gyra. Tom has jumped back into music with both feet, and both hands… with an enthusiasm for classic Rock & Roll hits. He provides that kick in those classic hits just the way you remember it. Strumble Head is Tom’s first stage experience.
Mark Reilly – Lead Guitar, Keyboards, Vocals Picking up Guitar and Piano in the early 80’s, Mark developed a style that allowed him to perform with many bands over the years like Wickerfish, appearing with The Verve Pipe at venues around Michigan. Other bands include The Possibilities, and Big Trouble Blues Band. With influences like by The Beatles, ‘pre-Wall’ Pink Floyd, Steely Dan, and Classic Soul music, he really has a diverse bag of tricks to throw at the fans.
Tim Hamm (joined 2012) - Bass: Tim has been playing bass guitar in bands for over 30 years, and been a music fan for his entire life. Raised on the music of Herb Alpert and Frank Sinatra, to his siblings introducing him to Beatles, Alice Cooper, and Grand Funk, Tim was able to integrate all this into his own diverse musical interests creating a broad range of influences. In his words, "whatever the song, my job on bass guitar is to help provide the foundation allowing everyone to shine".
Rich Francisco (joined 2023) - Guitars/Keyboards/Vocals: - Rich has the challenge of replacing our founding member Rick Forberg. Rich has been playing in the southwest Michigan area for over 30 years, and has talents with guitar, keyboards, and vocals. His positive energy and excitement are a welcome addition to Strumble Head.
Tom Beukema - Soudman/Tech - Tom joined Strumble Head back around 2012, assisting the band with setup and running the sound mix. Since those early days, Tom has become well experienced with not only running the digital mixer via iPad, but also getting all sound related gear setup for performances. Tom is as valuable to the band as any musician, and is the reason we always have the best mix possible. When you see him wandering around with the iPad, be sure to thank him for all his hard work
Former Strumble Head members:
Tonya Martini - Lead Vocals
Brian Lewis- Lead Vocals, Percussion
Rick Forberg - Guitars, Vocals, Harmonica, Keyboards
Gary Bowman - Guitars, Vocals
Mike Angel - Bass
Dennis Jeltema - Drums