Gary Gates

After more than four decades of rocking the Bay Area, Gary Gates has earned his status as a respected elder of the Bay Area jam band scene. Gary's tried and true brand of reggae-tinged psychedelic jam rock has been getting people on their feet ever since the late '70s when Gary toured as the opening act for Neil Young. Uplifting lyrics, danceable grooves and epic guitar solos are Gary's forte, including a large catalog of memorable originals mixed with his versions of Bob Marley, Grateful Dead, etc.

Gary typically gives away his CDs for free at his shows including the acoustic big band of "Live at the San Gregorio General Store," recorded and produced by John Nowland (Neil Young, Jewel), plus another release recorded with Phil Lesh at Terrapin Crossroads.

Gary's latest release "Simple Folks" show the maturity in his songcraft and studio production skills, mixing exquisite acoustic tones with epic groovy jams. This type of panache is one reason Gary has been the closing act at both the La Honda Fair and the Pescadero Art & Fun Festival for the last 25 years and counting. Coupled with his enthusiastic and reliable fanbase, Gary never ceases to be a musical force on the coast. (Bio from garygatesband.com)