About Me
In 1986, when local rock gods in Grand Rapids, Michigan were sporting spandex and make-up, three yutes (see My Cousin Vinnie ) from the burbs, Ryan Texon OToole, Steve G-slice Gatlin, and Mike Grass Patterson were executing their own brand of power trio Michigan rock with their first group, Sweetleaf. Well, maybe there was a little spandex somewhere along the line! This trio performed mostly talent shows and living room parties gaining a local following within certain circles. A brisk momentum kicked in especially after the famous living room gig, The Butter Knife Incident, where the host was suicidal in a frenzy of music and seventy-five party-goers crammed into his two bedroom ranch! That folklore still lives on today.
After Mike Pattersons departure in 1989, two new members joined the fold. Steve Ringer Hammond, a lefty guitarist who would add a melodic and sonic flair to the boogie rock back beats & riffs completing a vicious two guitar attack! Accompanied on bass by Ron Davidson, his talents would solidify a strong foundation with drummer Gatlin. Inspired by a local legend and Brutha, Michael C., the Wolfbruthas were born! Their mantra was, where there was Wolfbruthas, there was Wolf Juice (see Boones Farm).
The next two years the Bruthas would embark the task of putting their stamp on the scene by performing in West Michigan. This was a great time to showcase original music and to create an identity. But, even the greatest chemistry sometimes has a problem holding its own. After many trials and tribulations through the years 1991-1995, the wolves went into their own personal hibernation of sorts. OToole went to Seattle, Gatlin to Phoenix, Hammond to Florida, Patterson in Michigan, and Davidson to KC.
Its 2004, three original members (OTOOLE, GATLIN, and HAMMOND) hook up and write songs of love, hope, and despair, without sounding like cheesemeisters!! This meeting would rekindle the friendships and musical magic that had always been there. These songs would become reflections of everyones lives but still relatable by the general populace. Feeling the Cosmic Energy, (see Robert Plant), the resurfacing of bassist Mike Patterson secured the line-up. It HAS come full circle. Let a new story begin (sans the Wolfjuice. See coffee, cappuccinos, h2o, & soda).
The following members must be mentioned as very credible to the evolution and growth of the Wolfbruthas:
Marty Mr. Cool Dungey -- Guitars and backing vocals during the years of 1991 thru 1992
Bob Flap Saladino -- Drums, percussion, and vocals during the years of 1991 thru 1992
Ron Soundman Hurd -- For mixing the righteous sound during the years of 1991 thru 1992
We thank ALL of you Bruthas for your participation, inspiration, and talent that helped us grow to where we are today! Thank You!!!!!