About the UPB

The Union Pacific Band [UPB] goes back longer than most of its members care to
remember. Starting as a duo in 1971, the band evolved through numerous changes
in the 70’s and 80’s, disappeared from sight for 20 years, and now has returned
to again entertain audiences of all ages.

The 70’s

Linny Kammeter (vocals, guitar) and Dave Donahoe (vocals, guitar) started out as a duo
playing small clubs. But Dave had played in bands in Utah and California and missed that
“fuller” sound.

In 1977, Gary Archer replaced Mike Hurley on drums. Jim Mason of the Richmond News-
Leader reviewed UPB in 1978 and wrote this in his “Stepping Out” column “
Versatility and vocals typify this band.. (they) rock’n’roll all right but they also cover
tracks from bluegrass and country to rhythm and disco.” >> More

More changes came, as Linny was replaced by Bobby Sidenberg and Mike Hurley
rejoined as a second keyboard player and vocalist. UPB’s popularity exploded with
this lineup, they began playing colleges, universities and high schools all over Virginia,
Maryland and North Carolina. East Coast Entertainment signed UPB to an exclusive
management agreement.

The 80’s

After a two year period of stability, more changes… Gary Archer was replaced by Gregg
Gammon on drums, Bobby Sidenberg left for California, giving way to John Whitlock.

In 1981, Union Pacific Band was one of only ten central Virginia bands chosen to be
part of XL102's Statutory Rock album with Mike Hurley’s original tune “See
What I Mean.” Growing families and ever increasing career demands caused Dave,
Ray and Mike to bow out in early 1982, replaced by Michael Poland, Ellie Sorg and
Bruce McKay.

In April, 1983, when the last “original” member, Gary Crane, decided to hang up
his bass, the Union Pacific Band quietly faded away. Several original members played
together in other Richmond area bands such as Nite Flite and Private Sector. Unlike
UPB’s practice and performance schedule, these groups did not require such an
intense commitment.

The 90’s

In the fall of 1993, to mark 10 years since the final performance of the Union Pacific
Band, a reunion was organized with nine of the 14 former members able to attend.
It was planned as a simple get together since most people had not seen each other
for many years. However, after a little drinking, a bit of eating, some talking, reminiscing, and a bit more drinking, new bands started forming.

John, Mike, Gregg, Gary C. and Bruce began the band Phoenix which remained
together in various line-ups for over 7 years. Dave, Ray, and Gary A. worked on
and off, together and separately, in bands like the Jukebox Brothers and Fantasy.

The 2000’s

UPB quickly returned to its forte of tight stand-out vocals and an exceptionally versatile
song list. Gary A. “retired” in mid-2006, but occasionally sits in with the rest of the
guys. In late 2009, Paul relocated out of town and Bill Lockhart (an old friend from past bands) joined UPB on drums. From time to time, Dawn Wilhelm of Phoenix and Brynne Rollins stop by to sing a few songs. And you just never know when another former member of UPB might drop in just for the fun of it.

Remember the UPB motto:
"If you danced to it growing up – We can probably play it!"

UPB - 2010