- Location:
- San Jose, California
- Travel Radius:
- Will travel up to 3000 miles from San Jose.
- Pay Range:
-
$300-$2000 per event
- Member Since:
- 2006
- Primary Category:
- Steel Drum Band
- Additional Categories:
- Jimmy Buffett Tribute Act, Steel Drum
- Genre:
- 60's Hits, 70's Hits, Beach Music, Brazilian, Caribbean, Cuban, Dance, Jazz, Latin, Merengue, Reggae, Rock, Salsa, Steel Drum, World Music
- Influences:
- Lord Kitchner, Harry Bellefonte, Jimmy Buffett, Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff,Andy Narell, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Santana, Boogsie Sharp, David Rudder, Augustus Pablo, Van Morrison, Elton John, Professor Longhair, Dr. John, Leon Russell, Billy Joel, Jimi Hendrix
Group Members
- Roger Anderson - Drums
- Victor Revere - Bass
- Amelia Raine - Guitar and vocals
Description
Bob (The Professor) Goldstick plays all styles of calypso, reggae, soca and Jimmy Buffett music and will provide the sounds and feelings of a beautiful beach at sunset in the Caribbean for your party. Bringing a lifetime of experience in blues, jazz and rock results in an exotic blend of steel drum sounds and favorite songs from all styles.
Starting with all of the traditional islands songs like Yellow Bird, Jamaica Farewell, many Bob Marley reggae songs that are standards for any island party, Bob creates the atmosphere of an island party with the haunting sound of the steel drum and lyrical vocals. Add the drink umbrellas, colorful clothes and some island snacks and you have the Caribbean in your backyard. These songs played in the traditional way are perfect for creating the ambiance.
But I also can offer two different types of shows. I play a full range of Jimmy Buffett songs. From the popular ones like Margaretville, Cheeseburger in Paradise, and Brown Eyed Girl to songs like Jolly Mon, Gypsies in the Palace, Grapefruit Juicy Fruit, Pirate Looks at Forty, Volcano and many others that you will love if you are a Jimmy Buffett fan.
I also love much of the new calypso and soca and do a special tribute to Lord Kitchener and his music. Lord Kitchener was the premier song writer in Trinidad for over 30 years and his songs won “Best Song” at Carnival over 15 times. Many of his songs have become standards in the steel drum party band repertoire like My Band, Sugar Bum Bum, Musical Wine, Bees Melody and Miss Tourist, while others are great but don’t get performed often like Pan in A Minor, Get Yuh Beans Out Of My Rice and Love In The Cemetary. I also do the vocals and many of these songs have some of the best and most hilarious lyrics you will ever hear. From the battle between two guys over who gets to eat the rice to the lady first telling “Kitch” he has to leave because of the curfew to not letting him leave because of the curfew. Songs about bees, tourists, even songs about writing a song like Pan in A Minor. His songs have a magical blend of the island rhythms, steel drum sounds and philosophy of life.
I would love to be a part of your event and share this wonderful music with you and your guests and can guarantee you that everyone will love the music. I've been a professional musician all my life (mostly as a piano player with 15 years playing steel drum) and have performed in every setting imaginable. I have always been applauded and praised for my musical talent. You can listen to audio clips for Mary Ann and Mambo No. 5 for typical Caribbean music.
One of the unique features of my steel drum music is that I bring all of my musical experience to the performance and it becomes much more than just the island music; it becomes a blend of the island music with many other styles. An audio example of this is a reggae version of the great Nat King Cole tune, Nature Boy.
I can perform either solo or with additional musicians depending on the type of party. For the solo act I play steel drum and use backing tracks for the sound of the bass and drums so the overall effect is that of a three-piece band similar to the solo audio clips on the gigmasters page. I also sing and play keyboards for added variety. This combination provides the sound and ambiance of the islands to create an atmosphere. If people want to dance I just ramp up the energy level and get them moving. The rhythms and the sounds kind of take over to create the party feeling.
Audio examples of songs with vocals and melodica are Lion Sleeps Tonight and Yellow Bird. The melodica is a keyboard instrument that was popularized by Augustus Pablo from Jamaica and is a combination of an accordion and harmonica.
If you want a higher energy performance I play with a bass player, guitar player and drummer. Audio examples of the full band are Hot, Hot Hot, One Love and Desifinado.
The best way to get a feel for the reaction to my performance is to read the reviews I’ve received on my gigmasters page. You will note that the music is always praised as well as my professionalism in being on time and working with the client with regard to the music and any other requirements.
I play almost all of the traditional island calypso songs as well as South American samba and bossa nova, Jamaican reggae, Cuban mambo and rumba. I also play songs like Jimi Hendrix's Little Wing, The Beatles Oob La Di Oob La Da, and jazz standards like Little Sunflower. These songs take on an entirely new sound and feel when performed with the island rhythms and the steel drum sound.
You can also have a combination show of steel drum music and blues and rock 'n roll piano OR Hammond organ band. You can choose from over 1000 songs from all styles of music from jazz standards to blues to the classic rock hits from the 50s 60s and 70s and you can include.
Song List
- Besame Mucho (Cha Cha) - Carlos Velazquez
- Blue Bossa (Bossa Nova) - Kenny Dorham
- Day-O! Banana Boat Song (calypso) - Harry Belafonte
- Girl From Ipanema (Bossa Nova) - Antonio Carlos Jobim
- Jammin' (Reggae) - Bob Marley
- Spanish Eyes (Cha Cha) - Singleton/ Snyder/ Kempfert
- Hot Hot Hot-- (Soca) - Arrow
- Margaritaville (Calypso) - Jimmy Buffett
- Brown Eyed Girl-- (Calypso) - Van Morrison
- Stir it Up (reggae) - Bob Marley
- One Love-- (reggae) - Bob Marley
- Jamaica Farewell (calypso) - Lord Burgess
- Sugar Bum Bum (soca) - Lord Kitchner
- Three Little Birds - Bob Marley
- Matilda (Calypso) - Traditional;
- MaryAnn (Calypso) - Traditional
- Little Wing (Cha Cha) - Jimi Hendrix
- The Lion Sleeps Tonight (Soca) - The Tokens/The Lion King
- It's Now Or Never (O Sole Mio () - Elvis Presley
- Perfidia (Cha Cha)
- Amazing Grace (Soca)
- My Band (Soca) - Lord Kitchner
- Canon In D - Pachebel
- Bridal Chorus-- Traditional Wedding March
- Under The Sea-(Soca) - Disney/Little Mermaid
- Yellow Bird-(Cha Cha) - Traditional
- Red, Red Wine-(Reggae) - UB40 -Neil Diamond
- Brown Eyed Girl-(Pop) - Van Morrison
- and many, many more
- ROCKET PIANO MAN - The Music of Elton John and Billy Joel
- Funeral For A Friend-Love Lies Bleeding - Elton John
- Candle In The Wind - Elton John
- Bennie And The Jets - Elton John
- Goodbye Yellow Brick Road - Elton John
- Tiny Dancer - Elton John
- Piano Man - Billy Joel
- Just The Way You Are - Billy Joel
- New York State Of Mind - Billy Joel
- My Baby Grand - Billy Joel
- Scenes From and Italian Resturant - Billy Joel
- Also songs by
- Leon Russell
- Dr. John
- Jimi Hendrix
- Tom Waits
- The Beatles
- The Rolling Stones
- Deep Purple
- Crosby Stills and Nash
- Neil Young
- and many more
Available For:
Anniversaries, Apres Ski Parties, Awards Nights, Banquets, Bar Mitzvahs, Bat Mitzvahs, Birthday Parties, Children's Birthday Parties, Casinos, Celebrations, Christmas Parties, Clubs, Community Events, Conventions, Corporate Functions, Country Clubs, Cruise Ships, Dinner Dances, Festivals, Fraternity Functions, Fund Raisers, Graduation Parties, Grand Openings, Hotels, Picnic, Private Parties, Proms, Resorts, Restaurants, Reunions, Studio Session, Weddings
Feedback
- Robert was an amazing musician and did an incredible job at our wedding. I was completely stressed out trying to get everything set up since my wife and I did most of the planning and work for our event. However, one thing i didn't have to worry about one bit was the great music. Robert and his group showed up several hours before the event, got everything set up and perfect and were good to go when the time came. His music was just right and set just the right vibe at our wedding. I highly recommend Robert as a great musician and prompt and efficient business man. Thanks so much. -- Tiffany T, Big Sur, CA, 6/27/2009
- Bob put together a fantastic combo. They did some great jammin' and got everyone on the dance floor. As a special treat they learned two of our favorite (though obscure) reggae tunes from MP3 tracks I supplied and did great covers of both. I have spent much time in the Caribbean and the music was as good as the "real" West Indian deal. -- Steve F, Mill Valley, CA, 6/20/2009
- Robert was a joy to work with. He arrived early and was set up in no time. Although he performed solo it sounded like a full size steel band. His music selection was perfect for the evening party and everyone commented how great the music was. Robert was PERFECT for the occasion. Highly recommended. -- Richard J, San Jose, CA, 7/19/2008
- Set a wonderful tone for our event that carried through the rest of the night. Bob put everyone at ease and I'd hire him again in a heartbeat. -- Linda B, Santa Cruz, CA, 11/15/2008
- I would highly recommend Bob. He was very professional. He interacted well with the guests and did everything he could to make the party a hit. Many of the guests told me that Bob did a fantastic job. Highly Recommend!!!!!!! -- Paul W, San Jose, CA, 8/22/2009
- Amazing! Robert was a complete success for our party. Our guests loved his music; it wasn't too loud or too soft, but just right. We have many of our guests come up and ask if we minded if they got his contact info for their parties. Would hire again in a heartbeat! -- Melissa M, San Jose, CA, 5/25/2008
- Bob was GREAT! We received so many compliments on how good the band was. I'd hire Bob again for sure!!!! -- Vickey E, Santa Rosa, CA, 8/20/2009
- I want to thank Bob for being a part of our SKYY Infusions Bartender party. He is extremely easy to work with and was prepared for anything. I truly appreciate him being so accommodating with the unexpected lack of electricity, tight quarters, etc. His music was a wonderful addition to our event. Thank you again for working with us, we were very pleased with having him there. -- Jaquelynn G, San Francisco, CA, 9/29/2008
- "Professor Goldstick" and his team were absolutely PERFECT!!
They arrived early, setup without any glitches (overlapping with all last minute typical turbulences) and gave us an incredible "ride".
Bob even handled two "confidential" requests.... my wife and I "both" pulled him aside and asked him to be involved and coordinate surprises to each other…one would think this would throw him off...not Mr. Goldstick...he coordinated both “special events” seamlessly.
I would (and will) highly recommend Bob and his chosen partners to anyone that may want professional, friendly and quite lively entertainment.
Thanks Professor!!
Bob and Gilda Telles
-- Bob T, Lodi, CA, 8/1/2009
- We were very happy with Robert. He was fabulous. He arrived early. Great with our members. He was very good with questions and letting guests try the instruments. The music was just what we wanted.
We would love to have him back again. -- Darlene S, San Jose, CA, 7/25/2009
- Robert was fun, professional, and the perfect addition to our wedding! He was quick to respond to all emails and correspondance before the event and showed up an hour early on our wedding day to set up and get ready for the day. He was a hit with our guests - everyone danced to the music at some point during the day and we all had a great time. My husband and I would highly recommend Robert to create the perfect ambiance for your event. He was MORE THAN GREAT!!
Thank you Robert!
From our hearts,
Andrew & Annette Sharpe -- Annette D, Chilliwack, BC, 7/28/2007
- We had the three piece steel drum band perform for my wife's birthday party. The Professor and his troupe were first rate performers at a reasonable price. I recommend them highly. -- Charlie W, Lafayette, CA, 7/5/2009
- Bob was very professional and accommodating. He was able to adjust his music selections to blend in with the guest atmosphere, even performing requested songs for dancing. We had Bob play for 3 hours during our party. The music repetoire Bob played on the steel drum was varied, non repetitive, providing both a relaxing background when our guests were talking to more festive tunes to provide a real party atmosphere. Our guests were thrilled for the entertainment and we hope to see Bob back here next year! -- Karen V, San Jose, CA, 5/25/2009
- Robert was awesome! He added that very special touch to my Dad's retirement party that only live music can. From the very beginning I was comfortable with Robert especially since I had never used the internet to find live entertainment. Robert returned all phone calls promptly and was very professional. The day of the event he was plenty early to get set up. He was very friendly, answered questions from guests and took requests. He saw that our family said a prayer before eating and offered to play Amazing Grace. He pays attention and was able to read the crowd. Thanks again Robert you were awesome. I received so many comments on your performance. -- Deena A, Brentwood, CA, 8/9/2008
- Robert arrived with two other musicians on time and ready to go when our outdoor event began. His selection of music was excellent and I heard nothing but great comments after the event. We had a Seafood Festival/Beach party in May under a tent at Semiahmoo and we almost felt like we were in the tropics except it was 50 degrees and the tent had heaters going. We were quite surprised when Robert began playing and singing dance music. What a versatile entertainer & I would recommend him to anyone. -- Bev S, Blaine, WA, 5/7/2008
- Fabulous, Fabulous, Fabulous! Robert was everything we needed to make this party hum! He was punctual, organized and most accommodating. His repertoire spanned many years and and a variety of genre. He even jammed with one of the guests and played Hatikvah with a Caribbean influence! Bravo! Thanks, Robert! And as a bonus - GigMasters is a great site for event planners looking for the perfect gig! I will certainly use this site again, when looking for gigs for my clients! -- Lesley S, Kelowna, BC, 7/6/2007
- The musical talents of The Professor were the perfect compliment to our pig roast. Guests enjoyed songs they were familiar with and it added a touch of flair that only live music can provide! A perfect 10!! -- Kathy E, Kenmore, WA, 9/23/2007
- Robert was very helpful in our song selections for the wedding ceremony and the reception afterwards. He was responsive to eMails and phone calls while we worked out the details of the wedding. During the reception he not only took special requests, but frequently asked what songs we wanted to hear, or what styles we wanted to dance to. Fun, entertaining, great to work with. Thanks Robert! -Eric and Laurie- -- Eric F, Port Angeles, WA, 8/18/2007
- He was great! The music was wonderful and everyone enjoyed him! -- Gigi O, Shelton, WA, 7/18/2007
- Robert arrived an hour before he was scheduled to perform and actually
started playing 30 minutes early to entertain guests that had arrived.
He was just perfect for our gathering. He explained the steel drum to curious guests, played background music, guests played with him, and at one point he had a guests dancing and singing to "Margaritaville". It was memorable and I would definitely recommend him to others. -- Linda F, Seattle, WA, 6/30/2007
- He was wonderful. He made our event so special. We love him!!! -- Amy T, Gig Harbor, WA, 6/16/2007
- Robert was great. He was there early and stayed a little later and was kind and personable to everyone. -- Karen J, Centralia, WA, 6/2/2007
- Robert showed up ahead of time to set up - but was not in the way of the party-goers. The private party was small and held in the back yard. The music was beautiful and provided the right amount of back- ground ambiance. He is extraordinarily gifted and versatile with his talent and is definately a recommended delight for any party. -- Karen E, Bellevue, WA, 6/1/2007
- We were thoroughly pleased with Robert, Glenn and Skip! We have an awards event every year, but have never had live musical entertainment. Becasue we changed our venue this year to a lovely hotel, we wanted to "class" up the event and Robert certainly helped us do that! He arrived early and was completely prepared. He was perfectly willing to "MC" our raffle and he sang the best rendition of Marquaritaville that I've ever heard! We would certainly hire Robert again and I have already recommened him to friends and co-workers. Throughout the eventing, at least ten people asked me how to hire Robert! Robert, Glenn and Skip were fun and accomodating and truly completed our "cruise" theme evening! -- Marjorie M, Portland, OR, 5/18/2007
- Great job, and very friendly. We had a party of about 600 and they all loved him.
Thanks Gigmasters -- Rod O, Shelton, WA, 3/31/2007
- I thought his perfomance was outstanding. He had also called me back on short notice which was also a great help. Plus, Robert was fun to listen too and everyone at our event enjoyed having him there. -- Tony N, Mountlake Terrace, WA, 1/16/2007
- A wonderful showman, a marvelus show. Our Club venue is difficult; bad acustics, poor lighting; tough crowd. He overcame all the obsticles and in no time he had the audience singing and humming and toe tapping along with him. We will have him back for sure. He is just plain FUN! What a great talent. -- Dennis W, Bellevue, WA, 9/27/2006
- Incredible musician, friendly person--overall, a perfect addition to our wedding. -- Amy G, Port Angeles, WA, 8/5/2006
- We were very pleased with the whole experience. Robert was very accommodating and geared his music to the activities of the party. We have already recommended him to others. -- Steve V, Bothell, WA, 7/23/2006
- Robert is a talented delightful musician! I certainly would hire him again and I would not hesitate to recommend him. -- Veronica K, Lacey, WA, 8/21/2006
- Robert was great. He totally ran the show in a very respectful and professional manner. He did not overwhelm the party, but only added to it. I would recommend him to anyone! -- Victoria C, Snohomish, WA, 8/19/2007
- Robert Goldstick was very experienced, and professional. He intuatively read the audience and adjusted his music to fit the mood of the crowd. I would recommend him highly in the future. -- Katrina B, Everett, WA, 8/25/2007
- He was great, comfortable to deal with, Everyone loved him.
Highly Recommended! -- Rabbi Berry F, Issaquah, WA, 3/21/2008
- Robert was perfect. Very accomodating, easy to work with, and professional. I highly recommend him. -- Joanna C, San Ramon, CA, 10/4/2008
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