a little history and member bios
The Wil Gravatt Band
The band was formed from the ashes of The In Theory; Wil was the drummer and lead singer. Wil moved to guitar and frontman and in 1998 the WGB was born. With a lineup of excellent DC area musicians he geared the new band towards a more honky tonk sound. Most of their shows were in and around the DC region. Their regular house gig at the renowned Whitey's in Arlington, VA every Thursday night quickly led to a large local and regional following.
Sharing the stage with the likes of Robert Earl Keen, Pat Green, Chely Wright, Cory Morrow, John Michael Montgomery, Walter Egan, Mark Wills, Daryl Worley, Hal Ketchum and many others has led to national exposure and exciting prospects for the future. They've just completed a new album in Nashville, slated for release in March 2007.
They were invited by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to perform at the State Department for the July 4th celebration in 2006.
(Pictured: WGB at the Birchmere in Alexandria, VA)
Wil Gravatt writes, sings and plays guitar
A self taught drummer, singer and guitarist, Wil's old friends may remember him as the artist formerly known as "Billy" drumming in many bands during his teens and early 20's. After graduating from VCU (and a stint as a salesman in NYC) he started performing full-time on guitar. His early career was comprised mainly of solo shows before forming the WGB in 1998. He released his first CD the same year with primarily orginal music.
Wil professes an eclectic array of musical influences including Van Morrison, Merle Haggard, The Clash, The Beautiful South, Steve Earle, Bob Wills, Waylon Jennings, both Hanks, Leon Russell...
in his free time Wil runs, hikes, travels and runs his entertainment agency.
Jimbo Byram plays the steel guitar
A native Virginian; Jimbo began playing the steel guitar in the early 70's. After a stint in the Army, he began performing full-time. He joined the Wil Gravatt Band in 2001. He's an integral part of the band's traditional sound.
Nick Mcalister plays the bass guitar and sings back-up.
Born and raised in North Carolina, Nick Joined the band in 2001. He adds strong vocals, lead and harmony. Nick released a solo CD in 2003 called "...bout time!" It's available at CD BABY.
Gary Crockett plays the drums and sings back-up.
Gary spent three years with Powerhouse Records recording artist Tommy Lepson, performing on the WAMA award winning "AM 53" cd, and has performed with other Baltimore-Wash. DC artists such as jazz saxophonist Ron Holloway,Bobby Parker, Robert Lighthouse and Rich Chorne.
Along with Wil Gravatt, Gary also appears from time to time with other Washington/Baltimore area artists including singer/songwriter Marge Calhoun, boogie/bluesman Catfish Hodge, Records recording artist Randy Thompson and Patty Reese.
 
p Paul Koch (pronounced Cook) runs the sound board
Also known as "Sound Pig" joined the band in 2005. He brings many years of performing experience (drummer),a keen wit and a salty sense of humor to the band. Paul is also co-producing the new album with Wil in Nashville.
kk Kurt Kratch plays the bass guitar and sings back-up.
Great bass player and band-mate (more to come....)