The Musicians
Meet the Band
Backbeat Boulevard features an ensemble of musicians representing some of the top talent that the Golden Isles has to offer. These accomplished musicians can also perform in a variety of configurations, ranging from an intimate solo or duo, to an all out concert worthy band with horns, and are capable of accommodating any stage or venue.
Joey Thigpen
Lead Vocals & Guitar
Well known throughout the region for his soaring vocals and prowess on the guitar, Joey Thigpen has been gigging on stages across the Southeast for over 35 years. As a member of a number of popular regional dance bands such as "The Buttercats", "The Loose Skrews", and "Shaded Image" – as well as a stint with gospel favorite "Patmos Vision" – Joey's wide ranging vocal abilities have lulled audiences for decades. Known as a "singer's singer", he has coached and mentored numerous area vocalists. In BackBeat Boulevard, Joey's masterful guitar work and commanding vocal presence serve as the backbone of the band's sound, effortlessly transitioning from soulful ballads to high-energy rock anthems. His ability to connect with audiences through both his powerful lead vocals and intricate guitar solos brings an authentic, emotional depth to every performance. In addition to his duties as lead singer and one of the lead guitarists for "BackBeat Boulevard" – he can be found many nights performing as part of an acoustic duo with Keith Dean (below), or as a solo act in local clubs.
Keith Dean
Lead Guitar & Vocals
Keith Dean is a 30 year veteran of stage and studio. He toured extensively as a road musician throughout the US and Europe, was a former lead guitarist for country artist Jason Aldean and blues artist EG Kight, and has shared stages with Little Big Town, Wild Rose, Winger, Confederate Railroad, The Tams, The Drifters and more. His skills as a lead guitarist have drawn crowds for many years. He is a published songwriter, owned and operated a successful music store, has instructed numerous students in guitar, and is founder of AdultGuitarLessons.com. Keith's talented lead guitar skills consistently blow audiences away, delivering scorching solos and melodic passages that showcase his masterful technique and deep musical knowledge. As BackBeat Boulevard's primary lead guitarist, Keith brings a level of professionalism and showmanship that comes from decades of performing at the highest levels—whether he's crafting intricate melodic lines or unleashing face-melting solos that leave crowds cheering, his dynamic stage presence and expert command of the instrument make him an essential driving force behind the band's signature sound. His signature vocal abilities also add another dimension to the band, contributing harmonies and occasional lead vocals that perfectly complement the group's diverse setlist. When not touring with "BackBeat Boulevard" he can be found performing in an acoustic duo show with Joey Thigpen (above), or as an in-demand "hired gun" with a number of regional acts.
Stanley Pierce
Bass & Vocals
Bassist, vocalist, and area favorite, Stanley Pierce has been entertaining coastal music lovers for decades. A working man's working man, he is well known as a musician, songwriter, composer and studio player throughout the region and is instantly recognizable sporting his trademark cowboy hat. Stanley's deep pocket grooves and funk-infused bass lines are the heartbeat of BackBeat Boulevard, laying down the foundation that gets audiences moving and keeps them on the dance floor all night long. With influences ranging from classic Motown to modern R&B and rock, Stanley brings an irresistible funk energy to every song, whether it's a driving rock tune or a smooth soul ballad. His masterful technique, impeccable timing, and ability to lock in with the drums create a tight, powerful rhythm section that elevates the entire band's performance. Beyond his bass prowess, Stanley's unique and powerful vocals are a cornerstone of the band's sound—whether he's stepping up to sing lead on select songs or providing dynamic backing harmonies, his voice adds depth, soul, and energy that resonates throughout every performance, making him an indispensable force in BackBeat Boulevard's live shows.
Lanny Grammer
Drums, Percussion & Vocals
A working musician since high school, Lanny Grammer has played drums and toured with bands such as High Tymes, Doc Holliday, Otis Redding, Jr., Stillwater, Wall of Rhythm, Rhythm Method, and The Dirty Hairy's. He has opened for bands such as Blue Oyster Cult, Blue's Traveler, Razzy Bailey, and many, many more. In addition to playing and singing, Lanny also teaches percussion/drum set from beginner to professional levels. He is well-versed in all musical genres, and is currently playing drums with BackBeat Boulevard, in addition to working as a popular freelance drummer with numerous local acts. His powerful, precision drumming drives the energy of every BackBeat Boulevard performance, combining rock-solid timekeeping with explosive fills and dynamic cymbal work that keeps the band locked in tight. Lanny's ability to read a room and adapt his playing style—from subtle brush work on ballads to thunderous backbeats on high-energy rockers—makes him an invaluable anchor for the band. His decades of experience across countless stages shine through in every performance, delivering the kind of professional, crowd-moving rhythm work that separates great bands from good ones.
Joey Smith
Saxophone & Flute
Talented saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist, Joey Smith, joins Backbeat Boulevard on many occasions, bringing his decades of experience to the stage. A veritable maestro on sax and flute, Joey has spent years touring, playing on cruise ships, contributing to studio sessions, and is a fixture on the Big Band circuit. He is skilled in jazz, rock, pop, blues and more. When Joey takes the stage with BackBeat Boulevard, his expressive horn lines and soulful improvisations add an unmistakable richness and authenticity to the band's sound. Whether he's delivering smooth jazz-infused melodies, punchy rock riffs, or soaring solos that get the crowd on their feet, Joey's musicianship elevates every performance. His ability to seamlessly blend with the band while commanding attention during his featured moments makes him a dynamic and captivating addition to any show.
Eddie Stone
Hammond Organ, Piano & Vocals
Eddie Stone is a seasoned singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist whose soulful Hammond organ, piano, guitar work, and vocals have made him a standout in the Southern rock world. A Georgia native and founding member of the internationally recognized band Doc Holliday, Eddie toured major arenas across the U.S. and Europe, sharing stages with legendary acts such as Black Sabbath, The Outlaws, Gregg Allman, Stevie Ray Vaughan, April Wine, and Loverboy. With Doc Holliday, Eddie helped the band earn a strong following throughout Europe and Scandinavia, achieving multiple #1 records and numerous Top-10 singles across more than 20 album releases. His studio work extends to collaborations with artists including Grinderswitch, with whom he also toured. Eddie remains active in several influential Southern rock groups, including long-running roles with Stillwater and the hit '70s band Wet Willie, where he has performed for more than two decades. He also joins the Jimmy Hall Band on select shows. While Eddie's career spans guitar, songwriting, and extensive studio credits, his primary role in BackBeat Boulevard showcases his powerhouse musicianship on Hammond organ, piano, and vocals, bringing depth, energy, and decades of musical history to every performance.