Joe ("Gilligan")
Lead Guitar
Joe has been playing guitar for over 45 years, weaving his passion for music into every phase of his life - from performing in bands on and off throughout his career to raising a family. His journey has taken him through the vibrant sounds of Classic Rock bands in the '80s, the gritty vibes of Grunge and Alternative Rock in the '90s, and then back to Classic Rock with groups like Frequency, Up2Snuff and Shameless Band over the past decade.
Throughout it all, Joe has maintained a deep love for the smooth, soulful melodies of Yacht Rock. Many of his guitar heroes - Steve Lukather, Jay Graydon, Larry Carlton, to name a few - are prominently featured in the song repertoire of Gilligan Yacht Rock. Inspired by these influences, Joe has recently decided to fully dedicate his musical focus to this genre. His commitment shines through, as he channels his expertise and admiration for Yacht Rock into every note.
Kevin ("Skipper")
Bass Guitar
Kevin brings a lifelong passion for music and a deep appreciation for groove and precision to Gilligan Yacht Rock. A bassist since his early teens, Kevin studied music at Temple University’s Boyer College of Music, where he performed with the Temple Big Band and various jazz ensembles before continuing his education at Drexel University and launching a successful career as a software engineer.
Throughout his musical journey, Kevin has performed with groups including the Alex Posmontier Trio, Shameless, and Fallon’s Religion, developing a versatile style influenced by artists such as John Patitucci, Stanley Clarke, Marcus Miller, Weather Report, and Steely Dan.
Fun Facts: When Kevin’s not laying down the smooth bass lines that drive Gilligan Yacht Rock, Kevin enjoys traveling, scuba diving, meeting new people, and exploring different cultures. His blend of musicianship, professionalism, and deep love for music helps bring the signature Yacht Rock sound to life on stage. Kevin is also another lefty in the band!
Bill ("The Professor")
Lead & Harmony Vocals
Jessica ("Mary Ann")
Lead & Harmony Vocals
Jessica is a powerhouse vocalist whose passion for singing ignited at the tender age of three and has never waned. Mostly self-taught, she honed her craft further by studying performing arts in college, an experience that boosted her confidence and stage presence.
Her musical style is shaped by iconic influences such as Whitney Houston, Linda Ronstadt and Hall & Oates, blending soulful power with melodic finesse.
Fun Facts: - Jessica is left-handed… She auditioned for both American Idol and The X Factor…Beyond music, she enjoys furniture restoration and flipping, combining creativity with craftsmanship.
Rose ("Ginger")
Lead & Harmony Vocals
Rose is a mostly self-taught vocalist whose musical journey began at the young age of six. While she studied piano during her school years and showcased her versatility by playing bass guitar in both a jazz band and later a club/wedding band, it was her passion for singing that truly captured her heart.
Rose has lent her distinctive voice to several notable bands in the tri-state area, including Shameless, Hot Ticket, Philly Rock & Soul and The Discoteks..
Musically, Rose draws inspiration from iconic artists such as Karen Carpenter, Bonnie Raitt, Steve Perry, and Ambrosia, blending their influences into her own unique vocal style.
Fun Facts: - Rose is left-handed, has a keen interest in genealogy, loves spending time at the beach and is the proud owner of two ball pythons!
Jay - Keyboards & Vocals
With more than 25 years of live performance experience, Jay is dedicated to recreating the iconic sounds audiences know and love. Before joining Gilligan Yacht Rock, he performed with the Steely Dan tribute, Naked Lunch, the Springsteen tribute, Who’s the Boss, and Groove Street Orchestra, sharing stages with musicians including Vini Lopez, Richie Blackmore, Jake Clemons, and Mike Rocket.
Using a modern Arturia and Logic-based keyboard system, Jay specializes in delivering the lush electric pianos, vintage synths, and Hammond B3 sounds that define the Yacht Rock era. Jay brings a deep appreciation for the polished sounds of the ’70s and ’80s, helping transform beloved recordings into authentic live experiences.
Mike - Saxophone & Flute
Mike has been playing saxophone and flute since the fourth grade and has been performing professionally since age 16. He holds degrees in both Music and Business and has built a diverse career as a freelance musician, performing with numerous bands throughout Upstate New York and the Philadelphia region.
His credits include performing with the highly successful Albany-based horn band The Refrigerators, as well as local favorites The Kelly Stratton Band and Philly Rock & Soul. Throughout his career, Mike has shared stages with and opened for legendary artists including Tower of Power, Average White Band, KC & The Sunshine Band, The Village People, The Guess Who, Richard Marx, Barenaked Ladies, James Cotton, and Joe Bonamassa.
Influenced by horn masters such as Lenny Pickett, Maceo Parker, David Sanborn, and Tower of Power, Mike brings energy, precision, and soulful musicianship to every performance. One of his most memorable experiences was touring the West Indies with a jazz-fusion band and recording at the legendary AIR Studios in Montserrat, owned by George Martin. His group recorded there just days after The Rolling Stones completed Steel Wheels, making them one of the last bands to record at the iconic studio before Hurricane Hugo devastated the island.
Today, Mike's dynamic saxophone and flute work helps deliver the smooth, polished sound that defines the Gilligan Yacht Rock experience. Mike’s a “lefty” too!
Dave - Drums
A self-taught, left-handed drummer since 1978, Dave has spent more than 20 years performing with classic rock cover and tribute bands, including Musician Impossible, Dead Poets, and the Journey tribute Separate Ways. In addition to powering the rhythm section of Gilligan Yacht Rock, he also performs with Make Believe (a tribute to TOTO) and Jagged Little Thrill (an Alanis Morissette tribute).
A four-time WMGK House Band finalist and two-time winner, Dave has shared stages with legendary acts including Don Felder, Foreigner, and Styx, and has performed before crowds of more than 70,000 while opening for Foghat and The Marshall Tucker Band.
Influenced by drumming greats such as Neil Peart, Jeff Porcaro, John Bonham, and Phil Collins, Dave brings energy, precision, and a deep love of great music to every Gilligan Yacht Rock performance.
Bruce - Percussion
"All Around Nice Guy!"
Bruce has been a vibrant force in the Philly/Jersey music scene for many years. Bringing energy and passion to every stage, Bruce has showcased his percussion skills with a variety of bands, including Hot Licks, Soul Purpose, and most recently, Philly, Rock and Soul. His genuine love for music shines through in every performance, making him a beloved and dynamic contributor in Gilligan Yacht Rock!.
"Mr. & Mrs. Howell"
Jeff & Maria
Since being rescued from the Island, The Howells missed the tropical life so much, they decided build their mansion in the sunny State of Florida.
You can usually see them at our larger shows manning the merch table, giving stock advice and catching up on "who's who" amongst the rich and famous!