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BIO

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The CONTENDERS BIO

The Contenders were formed in 1985 in Memphis Tennessee by Gary Draffin , Bassplayer and Vocalist, The band has always been a variety based top 40 group playing hits from the 1950's to current. The band played in and around the Memphis area until 1991.

In 91 the leader Gary left the group to join one of the top Nations top Show Bands, THE MARVELLS . Gary worked with The Marvells all over the US and Canada as well as in Europe , headlining at festivals and assorted other venues . The Marvells worked with many of the biggest stars in the business such as , Jerry Reed, Mitch Ryder, Juice Newton, Hank Williams Jr., The Drifters, The Forrester Sisters, just to name a few.

Gary took over as band leader of THE MARVELLS in 1995 continuing on untill 2000 . Gary took a break for two years. and in 2002 along with Wayne Hart reformed , THE BOXTOPS Wayne had been in the Box Tops in the late 60's and early 70's. The Box Tops worked dates in the Memphis area for the next year or so . Gary and BOX TOPS DRUMMER Steve Alban decided to reform the CONTENDERS

They then teamed up with guitarist and vocalist Ray Still, Ray also plays a guitar synth . that has all the sounds of keyboards, as well as being a very accomplished sax player and vocalist ,Ray had been in the original band in the late 1980.s

The newest member to the lineup is Charlie feathers Jr.[ BUBBA] he along with his dad [SUN STUDIO.s legendary CHARLIE FEATHERS ] are both in THE ROCKABILLY HALL OF FAME , Bubba has added a new dimenson to the bands vocals , with his versatile renditions of todays top country artists , as well as the greats of the past!

The Contenders Have been performing mainly in Casino's and on Cruise ships for the last few years . If you want WORLD CLASS ENTERTAINMENT , The Contenders are the band for you !

















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