Real blues. Real funk. Real Soul.

Composed of veteran musicians and performers, Erik Ryden and the UNK OF FUNK is a group ready to deliver.

Erik Ryden

A stalwart veteran of the mid michigan music scene, Erik Ryden is a seasoned vocalist and guitar player. He has years of experience as a touring performer but as of late has been engaged in a variety of solo work both as an individual and group leader. A unique guitar player with an eclectic collection of influences, Erik is primed and ready to make his mark on the all of Michigan and beyond.

Steve ‘UNK OF FUNK’ McCray

A living legend, Steve McCray, the UNK OF FUNK himself, is a unique and original phenomenon of the Michigan music scene and the beating heart of this collaboration. Music runs in Steve’s family. While performing with his brother, Grammy nominated guitarist Larry McCray, Steve has developed a one of a kind sound on the drums over the last few decades. An equally knowledgeable expert in funk, soul, and blues, the Unk is ready to keep the kids honest and the music groovin’.

Rhett Yocom

In the midst of receiving Best Blues Band and Best Blues Instrumentalist awards in Review Magazine Rhett has graced the stage and the airwaves across Michigan. Most notably Rhett has opened for Larry McCray, Thornetta Davis, and John Watkins. From the Tawas Blues Festival, up to Alpena, over to Houghton Lake, and down to the Gem Theater in St. Louis Michigan, Rhett gets his kicks on the road playing for you!

Jeff Grassl

With a formal musical education and several years as a professional musician under his belt, Jeff Grassl is ready for anything. While earning a degree in Jazz Studies from Western Michigan University, Jeff regularly stretched himself playing soul and blues off campus. Jeff has notably played the Tawas Blues Festival backing Rhett Yocom and is set to feature in the upcoming Review Magazine Awards with his new jazz trio. With a wide array of eclectic and passionate interests, he is committed to creating a unique sound on the saxophone by blending jazz, blues, soul, and rock.