DJ and MIDNIGHT SUN BAND

 

 

 

This group of lifelong musicians consists of:

 

D.J. Smith  - Lead Singer & Master Of Ceremonies

 

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A Georgia native, D.J.'s singing career spans decades of Classic Rock & Roll, Southern Rock and R&B performance. After relocating to Arizona, he joined "JD's Legendary Stars in Revue" along with local favorite Johnny K of "Johnny K And Kompany".  DJ also performed with "The Stars on 45", "The Golden Melodies", and "The Old School Stars".  He has performed on a vast number of stages including casinos, resorts and private events throughout Arizona and Georgia, D.J.  founded the "Midnight Sun" band which has become a hot act in the Valley of The Sun, including widespread appeal among the resort communities.

 

 

Dave DeRuiter - Bass Guitar & backup vocalist

 

A metro Chicago native, Dave moved to Arizona in 1981.  Dave's bass performance experience spans 30+ years.

Dave continued advanced bass study under the tutelage of master bassist Ray Riendeau. Dave has played every form of music from jazz to gospel, soul to rhythm and blues at festivals, casinos, clubs, resorts and special events.  He has been a full-time bassist in the Phoenix metro gospel music community since the mid-ninties, and continues to serve in that capacity.  Music influences include R&B, Motown, 70’s Funk, Smooth Jazz and Urban Gospel.                                                                                          

 

 

Joel Rogers - Drummer & Vocalist

 

A Madison Wisconsin native, Joel's professional music experience spans over 50 years.  During residency in Iowa, Joel played throughout the state with a popular rhythm and blues band which included 3 members who were subsequently inducted into the Iowa Rock n Roll and Blues hall of fame. He also performed during this period with blues artists Big Walter Smith and Sid Wingfield.  After college, this same R & B band spent 5 years touring the nation and was eventually signed by MGM records in the 1970’s.  He has performed with jazz artists Al Jarreau and David Sanborn, country artist Conway Twitty, southern rockers Charlie Daniels and Elvin Bishop.  Joel is a “journeyman” drummer with an eclectic musical background.

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Bobby Miller - Guitar & Vocalist

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Originating from Douglas Arizona, Bobby rounds-out the Midnight Sun Band as a dynamic guitarist and vocalist.  His versatility on guitar compliments the wide range of music genre performed by the band.  Bobby's extensive performance experience and musical influences have made him a valued member of DJ and the Midnight Sun Band.​​

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Carmen Ruiz - Vocalist

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Born in Puerto Rico and raised in New Jersey, Carmen's musical journey started and transitioned from Colorado to eventually settling in Arizona in 1993. Her vocal performance career has involved successes that include Nashville recordings and a multitude of Artist Achievement awards. Her wide range of vocal talent has added extensive genre dance music variety for the band.

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Remembering & celebrating the life & music of Dr. "Dub" - Dec.13, 1947 - November 1, 2015

 

"Dub" Putnam
Our Keyboardist & Vocalist