Mike Yates, Steel Drums Steel Drummer

I require a single electric outlet plug-in to power up my amplifier, mics and loop pedal.

I just have two steel drums and ancillary percussion and equipment. My footprint is 10x10 but squeeze to half that if need be.

The drums are sensitive to the sun, so I need cover if possible. I have a easy up tent in case the venue does not have cover outside.

Just electric connection and whether or not there is cover if the venue is outside.

Yes!

Yes!

The best gig I played at was at a country club near Coachella. I played Calypso and other Island tunes for a group who hired me for their Jimmy Buffet themed event. I felt part of their group as they had fun singing Buffett and Belafonte tunes!

I love playing at all sorts of events but weddings are my favourite! The guests are always happy and it’s easy to get them dancing."

I started gigging while in the military and my performances developed from there. Since I started I've performed over 20 weddings, parties and events on the west and east coast.

Harry Balafonte. His iconic pop and dance music have always been a crowd favourite, and I love incorporating hits like Jump in the line and Matilda into my sets.

The reason Im the better pick than other musicians is I cater to what the client desires. I am also a one man band and do it all!

I normally arrive 2 hours before the performance to set up. I normally perform 2 x 45 minutes or 2 x 60 minute sets. I'm happy to play a bit longer or shorter but I've found that these set times suit me and my audiences best.

I am happy to play outside but I ask for shade, a flat level surface and a power supply close to the performance area.

I can learn specific songs before the event but I usually limit this to 5 songs. The clients are welcome to pick a set list from my repertoire or let me choose the music for the performance.

Previous customers would describe me as a relaxing to upbeat with a focus of establishing a tropical vibe and to get the audience on their feet dancing.