GARY "SOAPY" HOPKINS

... BEEN THERE... DONE THAT PRETTY MUCH DESCRIBES MY MUSICAL HISTORY: SHOWBANDS, BLUES, COUNTRY, JAZZ, ROCK, ETC. ETC. Likely the most versatile, experienced drummer in Austin. I read music some but not enough to hurt my playin'. Started out on alto sax in 5th grade and didn't play a kit until college days; self-taught on drums.My Playing history includes: HY'S GUYS (the best showband ever)FREDDY FENDER; BO DIDDLEY, WC CLARK; LeMaster (Vegas-showband); played the Showboat, Caesars Palace, Union Plaza and others in Vegas. Currently doing a few jazz gigs (20s, 30s Bebop) w/ Erin Ivy and Grand Central (playing snare/hihat w/brushes only)...plus work w/ Jimmy Lee Jones (singer/songwriter) in the country venues; also w/ UNCLE LUCKY doing C&W, originals, and some Delbert...Had a career in pharmaceutical sales for 23 yrs, but played all during that time too. Played "on the road" for about 8yrs w/ various bands and had my own band for awhile...ugh! I was raised in Indiana (Terre Haute area) graduated from Indiana State Univ. w/ a BS degree in Radio/TV. Having lived all over the country; Lynchburg,Virginia, Las Vegas, Arkansas, Houston, San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Johnson City ( Mayor too), and now settled in Austin and live real close to my daughter,grandson, and family...which is way cool!