The Bad Sneakers Orchestra

The Bad Sneakers Orchestra is a tribute band formed in 2010 by Chicago bassist Paul Martin with an ambitious mission: to faithfully recreate the music of Steely Dan live, as represented on their classic albums. The group is a large 14-piece ensemble allowing multiple keys and guitar parts, intricate vocal harmonies, and rich horn textures. After 10+ years of performances (with time off for Covid) the band offers the signature Fagen/Becker compositions with casual aplomb and precision.

A number of Chicago legends have guested with the Sneakers over the years, including fusion guitarists Ernie Denov, Chris Siebold, and Mike Pinto, vocalists Mike Harvey, Cheryl Wilson, gospel singer Tina Crawley, and saxophonist Steve Eisen. The charter members are experienced Chicago musicians; the current roster of regular members includes Stevie Robinson (lead vocalist), Neal Alger (guitars), Mike Pinto (guitars), Kent Wehman (keys), Carter Luke (keys), Paul Martin (bass, musical director), Neal Wehman (drums), Kirk Garrison (trumpet), John Mose (trombone), John Bowes (tenor/alto sax), Tim McNamara (bari/tenor sax), Gayle Bisesi (background vocals), Ameerah Tatum (lead/background vocals) and Maggie Bynum (lead/background vocals).

The BSO hopes to see you at a Chicagoland venue soon. Follow them on Facebook (page: The Bad Sneakers Orchestra).