Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the members of the noisemakers?

The Noisemakers are Bruce Hornsby's long-standing backing band, renowned for their dynamic live performances and genre-bending sound. Over the years, the lineup has evolved, but the core members typically include J.T. Thomas on keyboards and organ, Sonny Emory on drums, Doug Derryberry on guitar and vocals, J.V. Collier on bass, and Gibb Droll on guitar. Bruce Hornsby himself leads on piano, vocals, and accordion, bringing his signature style and improvisational flair. Each member brings a unique musical background, ranging from jazz and rock to blues and pop, helping to shape the band's eclectic sound. Their collaborative chemistry allows them to reinterpret Hornsby's classic hits and explore new musical territories, making every concert a unique experience. The Noisemakers are celebrated for their musicianship, versatility, and ability to seamlessly blend genres, earning them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim in the rock and pop music scenes.

When did Bruce Hornsby come out?

Bruce Hornsby rose to fame in the mid-1980s with his debut album "The Way It Is,"

Why did Bruce Hornsby leave The Grateful Dead?

Bruce Hornsby became associated with The Grateful Dead in the early 1990s, joining them as a guest keyboardist following the death of Brent Mydland in 1990. Hornsby's technical prowess and improvisational skills were a natural fit for the band's jam-oriented style, but his involvement was always intended to be temporary. He joined the Dead for live performances and tours, helping ease the transition as the band searched for a permanent replacement. Hornsby ultimately left The Grateful Dead in 1992 to focus on his own musical projects, including his work with The Noisemakers and solo endeavors. While he enjoyed his time with the legendary rock group, his primary commitment remained his own music and the creative freedom it afforded him. Despite stepping away from full-time touring with the Dead, Hornsby has maintained close friendships with the surviving members and occasionally joins them for special performances.

Is Bruce Hornsby a good piano player?

Bruce Hornsby is widely regarded as an exceptional piano player, celebrated for his masterful technique and genre-crossing versatility. His playing seamlessly blends elements of classical, jazz, blues, and rock, creating a distinct and instantly recognizable sound. Critics and fans alike praise Hornsby's improvisational flair, rhythmic complexity, and melodic inventiveness. His piano work is a defining feature of hits like "The Way It Is,"

What is Bruce Hornsby doing now?

Currently, Bruce Hornsby remains an active and influential force in the music industry. He continues to tour and record with his band, The Noisemakers, captivating audiences with their high-energy performances and inventive reinterpretations of classic hits. Hornsby is also known for his ongoing collaborations with a diverse range of artists, contributing his signature piano style to projects spanning rock, pop, jazz, and even bluegrass. In recent years, he has released critically acclaimed albums such as "Absolute Zero"