Meet Kenny Elhard, a vocal powerhouse, the BPR bandleader, and a true seasoned performer extraordinaire.
"Give 'em a good show," has been Kenny Elhard's (AKA Jake Blues) musical creed for the past twenty plus years. As front man for the Blues Power Revue featuring
The New Blues Brothers, he knows how to work with the crowd and include the audience in a memorable and 'feel good' event. It's his goal to 'share the fun'!
" I can't just stand there and not do anything. I love to see the smiles come from the people's faces."
Kenny's musical journey began at the age of 13 when he played his first house party and was hooked from that moment on! He started performing at school dances and events and at the age of 16 played his first night club in Portland,Oregon. A year later the band he was with(The Imperials with Mr.Vern Vern) had the opportunity to back up the legendary Billy Preston (whose career was also beginning to skyrocket)(two years later Billy became the 5th Beatle) the band continued doing Portland dances and clubs....also during this time Kenny realized the importance of an education and began to study music in college and did so for the next two years.During the mid-1970's his performing talent took him to Las Vegas where he worked the'Nevada Circuit' for 3 years honing his showmanship skills.During this time he had the privelige to be on the same bill with such celebreties as: Waylon Jennings,The Righteous Brothers,Barbra Mandrell,Wayne Newton,Fats Domino,Fabian,Joan Rivers,Johnny Paycheck and other stars.It was in the mid 1980's when Kenny hooked up with his current partner,Mitch Reems and drummer Michael Kinder and decided to put together a "Showband".. and the rest is what you see today!! Over the past 20 years this very successful Showband has had the opportunity to perform with the Bo Diddley the legendary Chuck berry,Jim Belushi,Little River Band,The Knack,Backman Turner Overdrive,"Angel of the Morning"Merrilee Rush and more.During the past decade "The New Blues Brothers Revue" have recorded 3 CD'S.."Live At The Pacific" "Scratch and Sniff" and with the latest being a Christmas CD titled"Backin Up Santa" ....Kenny also enjoys 'giving back' and is actively involved in local charity events and still plays keyboards at his church.
Birthdate: January 23
Musical influences: Elvis; James Brown, Little Richard, Black Gospel music; Rich Dangel
Hobbies: 1960 Plymouth with the BIG fins
Favorite food: Chinese food