The legendary rocker, Derek St. Holmes, wrapped up a short but unforgettable four-day tour here in his home state of Michigan. And let me tell you, the final stop at The Vault in Saginaw was truly a show for the ages. Joining him on stage were special guests Band Co.Tribute to Bad Company, and local cover band, 2nd Hand. The energy was electric as fans from all across Michigan gathered to watch these musicians do what they do best – perform heart-pumping rock and roll.
If you’re a music lover, then you may want to check out The Vault in Saginaw, Michigan. With two floors and a 30-foot stage, it’s clear that the owner, Bill Peters had big plans when he bought this space. Bill himself is a musician, so he knows the ins and outs of putting on a great show, and he designed the space with that in mind. As he likes to say, “This is a venue built by musicians, for musicians, and the music fans that come to see them.” Whether you’re interested in national acts, regional favorites, or local up-and-comers, The Vault has something for everyone.
Kicking off the night was the sensational local classic rock cover band from Northern Michigan, 2nd Hand! This band includes some of the most talented and seasoned musicians around. Powerhouse singer Michelle Nellette and bassist Jeff Hoyt have great chemistry as they trade off lead and backing vocals. With Chris Hoyt and Mike Doremire on guitar, and Jason Lyon on drums, they created an unstoppable force that had everyone tapping their feet and singing along, and their sound was tight as hell. If you’re looking for a band that knows how to get the party started, look no further than 2nd Hand!
2nd Hand:
Michelle Nellette – Vocals
Jeff Hoyt – Bass, Vocals
Chris Hoyt – Guitar
Mike Doremire – Guitar
Jason Lyon – Drums
Set List:
1. Magic Man – Heart
2. I Could Be Good For You – 707
3. Cowboy Song – Thin Lizzy
4. Boys Are Back In Town – Thin Lizzy
5. Never Been Any Reason – Head East
6. Separate Ways – Journey
Band Co. A Tribute to Bad Company hit the stage next. This tribute band straight from Detroit paid homage to the one and only, Bad Company. From “Feel Like Makin’ Love” to “Bad Company,” this tribute band played all the fan favorites and had the crowd rocking out all night long. The energy in the room was electric and the talent of these musicians were truly something to behold. It was an awesome tribute to one of the greatest bands of all time.
Band Co. A Tribute to Bad Company:
Dale Prince – Vocals
Larry James – Guitar
Bobby Ray – guitar
Lawrence Wilson – Drums
Danny Grimm – Bass
Set List:
1. Can’t Get Enough
2. Movin’ On
3. Feel Like Makin’ Love
4. Bad Company
5. Run With The Pack
6. Rock N Roll Fantasy
7. Shooting Star
8. Rock Steady
9. All Right Now
Derek St. Holmes never fails to disappoint, and this show was no exception. The anticipation was growing as the crowd eagerly awaited the Detroit native to take the stage. As soon as he stepped up to the mic and strapped on that Gibson Les Paul, a wave of excitement rippled through the audience. With every strum of his guitar and every powerful note that escaped his lips, the crowd cheered louder and louder. Derek belted out many of his Ted Nugent classic hits, including “Just What The Dr. Ordered”, “Dog Eat Dog,” and “Stranglehold,” with the crowd singing right along. He even managed to squeeze in ”Catch My Fall” from his collaboration with Brad Whitford, Whitford/St. Holmes and a cover of “All Along The Watchtower” by Jimi Hendrix. As the show came to an end, Derek didn’t miss a beat – he walked out to meet his fans, chatting with them, signing memorabilia, and taking photos. It was clear that Derek’s talents extended far beyond his guitar and voice – he is also an exceptional human being. It was clear that the audience was left wanting more, and we cannot wait for him to grace Michigan with his presence once again.
I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Derek in concert multiple times, and each time, I am blown away by his incredible vocals. Even at 70 years old, this man has not lost a single ounce of his incredible vocal talent. From the first note to the last, Derek belts out each song with absolute perfection. But what really makes his performances special is the pure passion and energy he exudes on stage. He proves time and time again that, when it comes to rock ‘n’ roll, age is just a number. Derek is living proof that music keeps us young. If you ever have the chance to see him live, do not hesitate – it will be an experience you’ll never forget.
Derek’s Band:
Derek St. Holmes – Vocals, guitar
Randy Peavler – Bass
Lawrence Wilson – Drums
Larry James – Keys
Partial Setlist (there was no actual setlist, as Derek just went off the cuff):
1. Just What The Doctor Ordered
2. Live It Up
3. Free For All
4. Great White Buffalo
5. Dog Eat Dog
6. Stormtroopin
7. Cat Scratch Fever
8. Motor City Madhouse
9. Catch My Fall
10. Watchtower (Hendrix cover)
(plus a few more)
FOLLOW 2ND HAND
FOLLOW BAND CO. A TRIBUTE TO BAD COMPANY
FOLLOW DEREK ST. HOLMES
I love capturing the raw energy of a live show. There is nothing better than that rush you feel seeing your favorite artists performing live. I love music so much that it makes my heart smile being able to look back and share the photographs I’ve taken and reliving that excitement. Music makes the world a better place.
