Djazz Cafe

The Reality Band

03/19/10
8pm

The Reality Band was formed in September 2009 by Mike Kilgore, former drummer of The Moments Notice Band. Mike wanted to form the ultimate band that could play a variety of genres of music. He knew that he would have to handpick each new member to fulfill that goal. After Mike’s departure from Moments Notice he began freelancing with different bands. During the course of his ventures he landed a gig with the band D’nise Jonson and Midnite Rising. Mike has always enjoyed D’nise’s performance on stage. The gig they were doing at a local Ferndale Bar ended after two years. Mike took that as an indicator that it was time for him to complete his task. He offered D’nise the position of lead vocalist for the Reality Band of which she accepted.

There were many days when Mike would think about the chemistry he had on stage with Jerome Yancy (bass player) and Bobby Hill (guitar/vocals) of the Moments Notice Band. Mike decided to invite Jerome and Bobby to join The Reality Band. They both accepted the invitation. The reunion was celebratory. Mike, Jerome and Bobby were a rhythm section again. The three of them have been together since 2004 as the rhythm section behind various Local & International Recording Artists. Mike and Bobby have been playing together with various bands since the early 70’s. When the 70’s era was over the two of them went their own separate ways until they met up again with Jerome in 2004.

Since The Reality Band was formed they have performed for several different venues. The most memorable venue was the Opera House in Detroit. That is when D’nise proved herself to be a valued member and a perfect fit for the Reality Band. With the Blues vocals of Bobby Hill and the Jazzy vocals of D’nise Jonson they received a standing Ovation at the end of the night. With their stage presence, the variety of music and the energy they display on stage, The Reality Band is a force to be reckoned with.

MembersMike Kilgore (Detroit, MI) (Drums/Founder) formally w/ Moments Notice, The Contours, Carl Carlton, Chic Willis, Priscilla Price, Betty Lavette, JJ Barnes, etc.D’nise Jonson (Detroit, MI) (Lead Vocals) formally w/ Ramsey Lewis, Don Ho, Midnite Rising, The Funk Brothers, The Dale Courtney Orchestra, James Carter, etc.Bobby Hill (Macon, Georgia) (Guitar/Vocals) formally w/ Moments Notice, Priscilla Price, Cash McCall, Carl Carlton, Choker Campbell, etc.Jerome Yancy (Detroit, MI) (Bass) formally w/ Moments Notice, The Contours, Carl Carlton, Marcus Belgraves, Roy Brooks, Chic Willis, Priscilla Price, etc.