Now entering thier eleventh year, The Freedom Band is a name that has become synonymous with the #1 professional reggae sound and performance in Western Pennsylvania and the Tri-State area. Now comprised of members Donnie "Dread" Cyrus, "Chizzy" Chuck, and Drew Dauer, the band maintains a level of performance and musical experience that is unparalleled by any of it's peers.
The band initially consisted of Les Bowe, Donnie Dread, and Macasea Bey. For most of the 1990's, all three together comprised the rhythm section of another popular Pgh. Reggae band, the FLOW BAND. However, by 1998, all three decided to break-off and begin working together as FREEDOM BAND, usually along with vocalist Norris Reid. Right away, the popularity of the band began to grow, mostly due to their house band gigs at Rosebud (3 years), the Attic (2 years) and Nick's Fat City 'Reggae Thursdays' (4 years).
In early 2001, drummer Macasea Bey was asked to tour with Reggae legends ISRAEL VIBRATION. At that point, FREEDOM began to work with various other drummers, mostly utilizing the talents of Patrick "JJ" Smith (formerly of SWAMMP BAND). Eventually, later that same year, the band decided to move forward with Chuck Kristan, formerly of TALAWAH, as the permanent drummer.
In late 2006, Les Bowe decided to leave the band in order to focus on promotion of his two latest CD's, "Through my Eyes" and "Angel". His songwriting and performing success since then has led him to steady work in Chicago and Nashville.
In 2008, the FREEDOM Band is now co-led by both Donnie "Dread" and "Chizzy" Chuck. The band ALWAYS gives thanks for those special people who have always supported the band over the many years - RESPECT DUE! and MUCH LOVE!!!!
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