Mel Miller & Friends featuring James Bates

Mel Miller brings an impressive resume’ to this band of musicians.

A Carolina native, Mel has drummed behind many national acts, and regionally with The Plaids, The Cracker Band, The Mirrors Band and many more. Mel also co-owned and performed at the famous Charlotte nightspot “Merlins.” As the leader of the group, he sets the beat, and shares lead vocals as well!

James Bates, in the Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame as leader of The Spontanes, continues to sing and play and write music decade after decade. With a soulful voice and a smooth guitar style, James brings his talent to the stage night after night to each show. James is also proud of his time as leader of G-Town Sound, a mighty group with a six piece horn section that was wildly popular in the Carolinas. 

Bo Baity on guitar and vocals brings a bluesy rock style to the group……He credits his father with instilling his love of music and performing to him. His resume’ includes performing with Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs, Billy Scott and the Prophets, The MAGIC 96.1 Band Of Gold and many more. Hehas recorded at Warner Chappel Studios in Nashville, Tree Sound in Atlanta and Studio East in Charlotte. 

Tad Hough has been a professional keyboard player for over four decades and brings a wealth of experience to Mel Miller and Friends. Tads’ first group was called “Wide Open”, with a big following in the southeast. He has toured all over the country with various performers, including Billy Joe Royal, Percy Sledge, The Poor Souls, George Hatcher and many more. His smooth keyboard and singing style fits in perfectly.

Jim Shafer holds down the bass and background vocals. Jim started playing as a teenager, and has been a part of many groups, most notable the MAGIC Band Of Gold, that performed hundreds of shows while holding down the morning show duties on Charlotte’s oldies station, MAGIC 96.1. The Band Of Gold backed many national artists during the many Jingle Bell Hop holiday shows at Ovens Auditorium.