Wheelz (UK)

The cost of running live music events can sometimes be prohibitive or erode the potential benefit for the charity. But what if you know that the band’s fees, whatever the event, are for charity as well?

Now there’s an idea!!!

Wheelz was formed in late-2005 and comprises seven like-minded rock and rollers with a history of playing and (and surviving!!) through the halcyon days of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s, when music was not only entertainment but almost a way of life.

Wheelz is out to recreate that era with its own style of rock and pop.

The band is itself a fundraising vehicle. Whatever the occasion, all the fees received are actually donated by the band to charities of its own choice. ‘What better way of raising money than to do something you really enjoy’ says bassman Paul Wellman.

The band line-up consists of three guitars, keyboards, drums and two singers, who double up on percussion, providing a full range of rock and roll, soul and hits of the era, with a great blend of musical sound, dynamic vocals and harmonies.

So why do they do it? Well, over the years live music has been generally relegated to expensive concert arenas and die-hard pub landlords, with discos or piped music taking over. However it is a fact that seeing a band play live is not to listen to perfect reproduction of a record, but to enjoy the whole experience of being entertained by ‘live’ musicians. This is what Wheelz is all about. It is a nostalgic trip back in time to remember (and join in if you want!!) the atmosphere of those unique days.

Formed in 2005 as a both a gigging 60/70's band and a fundraising vehicle. Try not to do more than 1 gig a month.

We are purely a live band and all still get a great buzz from performing. For the last two years we've been the support band for a large, open-air 'Concert In The Park' gig in Essex, with the Royal Philharmonic Convert Orchestra as the headline act! Fabulous venue, humongous PA system and a crowd of 4,000. Really enjoyable

Mostly 60's and 70's music with a tendency towards Rock'n'Roll numbers, but also enjoy playing songs with good vocal harmonies

Traditional back line - drums (Premier, Pearl, Roland), bass (Fender) plus keyboard/synth (Alesis), Lead guitar (Gretsch), Rhythm guitar (Taylor), acoustic guitar (Ovation), Mackie desk and PA and various mics, snakes, lights etc.