TANYA WITT (Lead Vocals/Manager): Originally from Green Bay, WI (GO PACK!); Tanya Witt began entertaining at the age of three. She sang her first television jingle while in high school; and continued on the path of performance while in Nashville, TN studying music business at Belmont University. She was part of a small choir that backed up Ray Charles in one of his final concerts, "The Gospel According To Ray Charles" and has also shared a stage with musical greats such as Kenny Rogers, Boy Howdy, and Poison. Tanya has spent the past several years touring with the Branson Superstars during their Midwest runs. She plays the characters of Patsy Cline; as well as serving as a backup singer for their Elvis show. She has appeared in front of as many as 20,000 people and her voice has aired nationally on television stations ESPN, TNN, and CMT as well as on NBC, ABC, and Fox affiliates. Tanya has sung the National Anthem for every venue imaginable including the Green Bay Packers Organization. She continues to work as a demo singer, voice over artist, and jingle singer; providing vocals for commercials such as "Holiday Motors", "Wink Away Cleaner", "LA Fitness", and many others. She often lends her voice to live radio broadcasts, charity events, and special causes. Tanya also works as a plus model and has been featured in several magazine and special event shoots. She is available to give private vocal lessons in the Inland Empire area. Learn more about Tanya at www.tanyawitt.com
TOM WIKER (Drums/Vocals): Tom is a seasoned drummer/musician, with solid experience from the UK, Pennsylvania, and now in southern CA. With over 20 years experience, he specializes in rock, alternative rock, country, and the many variations in between. In addition to playing with Witt's End, Tom plays drums for The Brewer Boys band from Temecula, CA. He can also be found performing with and supporting many other talented local singers/songwriters. For more information, Tom can be found at www.tomwiker.com and on facebook
RICK RICKARDS (Bass/Vocals): Growing up in suburban Philadelphia, Rick was profoundly impacted by the exploding music scene of the 60s and 70s. Borrowing his father’s guitar, he signed up for guitar lessons at age 13...the first step in his musical quest for wealth and fame. Rick was playing in bands by age 15, studying music theory at age 16, and teaching guitar at age 17. He built a solid background in various styles, playing in various commercial bands, rock bands, country bands, jazz bands, and contemporary Christian bands. In order to add even more flexibility, he also learned to play electric bass. After relocating to Southern California in 1985, Rick put his musical pastime on hold for a time, focusing instead on building a business. He re-entered the music scene several years later, playing in numerous church bands and also serving as a church music director. Today Rick still plays in churches, but also indulges in his love of playing classic rock tunes with Witt’s End. He enjoys the indescribable feeling of creating live music, and giving audiences a feeling of enjoyment...even if the fame and fortune part of the music business are still proving to be elusive.
VINCE MENDOZA (Lead Guitar/ Vocals): Vince's passion for playing the guitar in high school garage bands led to credits that include recording with Michael Jackson, touring with 80's pop star Tiffany, tours of Finland and India, and recordings on numerous radio commercial jingles. After years of playing the Southern California club scene, theme parks, USO shows,and everything in between, the Southern California native released his first CD, titled "Highway 154." Vince received an AA degree at Golden West College and went on to Long Beach State College to pursue a bachelors degree in music. After a year and a half he received a scholarship to the University of Southern California. Reluctantly, he declined the offer so he could get out in the real world and start playing. Along the way, he spent some time working with some of the top studio musicians at "Brauers Makin Music" in Los Angeles. Here Vince gained a vast insight to the talent of tone. From Vintage amps to the latest Boutique amp, the experience proved invaluable. After years of experience, this guitarist is embarking on a new chapter from sideman to artist. This is just the beginning! He is available to give guitar lessons. Visit Vince at www.vincemendoza.com.
JOHN WITT (Sound/Head Roadie): John began running sound for his wife Tanya's band Straight Up in 2007 because they couldn't afford to pay a 'real' sound guy. He quickly learned the ropes and soon became an essential part of the group; handling setup/tear down, sound, and lighting with ease. When he's not making everyone on stage look and sound good; John enjoys working at his day job, traveling, snorkeling, and eating dark chocolate.
