I majored in jazz guitar performance at Oakland University in Rochester, MI. After touring polyester jumpsuit lounges during the disco era, I became a founding member (guitarist and composer) of the seminal Chicago fusion band, Juggular.
Through the 90s, I performed with the TVK Orchestra, a Chicago-based special events and wedding band.
I took a break from music from about 2000-06. When I picked up the guitar again, I returned to one of my original musical passions — the blues. This led me to play with Elmore James Jr. and other Chicago blues artists, including the Blues Persuaders (a.k.a. 60-Grit) 2006-07.
Current Bands:
- The Red Apples (roots rock, Americana, country)
- The Turnstyles (pop/rock) and DSO Orchestra (variety & special events) under Derrick “Suede” Stout’s Darwin Records
- Debra Jackson and the Firestarters
Music is an avocation for me, but a core passion and driving force in my life. I have tremendous admiration and respect for the hard working folks who make their living through the performance and teaching of music. Hat’s off!
Dave Lenef