3 Play is made up of three of the finest entertainers from all along the East Coast. Their musical talents are par to none and will definitely be enjoyed by your guests at your next event.
Donnie Marshall, Drums, Percussion: Donnie Marshall began his career as a professional musician twenty-eight years ago when faced with the decision to either continue his education at Berklee College of Music or stay in his hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina to perform with and learn from the local greats. He chose the latter, quickly rising through the ranks to become one of the southeast’s most sought after freelance drummers.
Marshall’s ability to master all styles of music originated from over ten years of studio work with Sound Choice, the world’s largest manufacturer of karaoke CDs and DVDs. Marshall’s versatility and professionalism has earned him session and live work with such artists as Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Bonnie Bramlett, Ronnie Laws, Gladys Knight, Arthur Smith, The Platters, The Drifters, and many others. Marshall currently maintains a busy schedule of nationwide and local performances and session work as well as a teaching schedule that includes over 40 students. He is also the musical director for the NASCAR commentary show, Track Side, on the Speed Channel.
Joe Lindsay, Guitar, Vocals: Joe Lindsay is one of the most in demand guitarist in the east coast
area. With twenty years experience under his belt has earned him an reputation not to be overlooked. He has recorded or performed with the likes of James Brown, Baby Face, Anthony Hamilton, John P. Kee, Howord Hewette,
Calvin Richardson, Roy C, Ki-C & JoJo, Nappy Brown, Al Copper and a
host of others. Joe Lindsay received his musical education at Berklee College of Music (Boston Mass.). Joe Lindsay currently has two solo projects in the works as well three songs on the 2008 Calvin Richardson release “When Love Comes”. (Shanachie Records). As well as two cd’s out on (One Music). “Classic R&B 2” and “Dynamite Sports”.
John Dillard, Bass Guitar: Born and raised in Rochester, NY, John, was surrounded by musicality that helped to shape his particular style of playing. After devoting his early years to playing the drums, he began playing bass at the age of 16. John credits early influences to his father, family-friends, and his childhood affiliation with the House of God Church-Keith Dominion. During this time John has stated that he was blessed with the opportunity to learn from the late Anthony Harmon, legendary bassist for Yolanda Adams. Other early influences were Phil Campbell, Dirwin Brown, Maurice Fonnevile and Dale Hines. As John’s love and dedication grew throughout the years, he has been influenced by bassists such as Jaco Pastorius, Marcus Miller, Anthony Jackson, Reginald Veil, Ray Brown, Ron Carter, Dave Holland, John Patitucci, Nathan East, Fred Hammond, Joel Smith, Andrew Gouche’ and a diverse appreciation for other great bassists. When asked who is his greatest influence, John’s response has always been consistent: “Too many to name and enough to keep me humble and always practicing”.
Whether playing the electric, acoustic (upright), or key bass, John can be found holding the groove on the local stages of Charlotte, NC, or performing on main stages across the country with national recording artists with Stellar and Grammy awards and nominations. John has gained swift acclaim as a prominent bassist in the music industry through his full bass sound, deftly clever lines, and solid grooves. His notable client list includes Karen Clark-Sheard, John P. Kee, Monique Walker, Daryl Coley, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Heather Headley, Queen Latifah and Mavis Staples. John is currently working with gospel artist Lejuene Thompson, R&B artists Calvin Richardson and Stephanie Mills from the hit stage play ‘The Wiz’ while continuing his work with Contemporary Jazz artists Mike Philips, Brian Simpson, Matt Marshak and Four80East.
John’s affiliation with such admired, and respected, artists is a true testament to his motto that “Versatility, Dedication, Excellence, and Groove = the Total Bassist”. Strap yourself in for some heart stopping, spirit moving, mind-bending musical expression from this talented bassist.
Entertainment so memorable that hundreds of people are still cheering from the stands.