Roland learned to
play the drums at an early age. In
a way, you could say he had no choice because his Mom was part of an all girl
drum and bugle corp and his Dad can still “cut the rug” with the best
dancers around. He got his first
drum set at age 6 when an uncle decided to give him a set he did not want. He brought them over and Roland took to them like a fish to
water. In fact, a neighbor took
Roland’s Dad to court because the drumming was disturbing the peace of the
neighborhood. The neighbor thought
that his Dad was playing and the judge ordered Roland to bring the drums to
court to prove his case. The story
hit the local papers and “Little Roland” began his music career.
Growing up, he played in bands. His
first was “Little Roland and the Romans.”
The players ranged from age 9 to 16 years of age.
They played in local Battles of the Bands and enjoyed their “15 minutes
of fame.” Roland played in school for the jazz ensemble and concert
bands and was influenced by the music of everything from the Beatles to Buddy
Rich. He later played the Spanish
circuit with Mystique and Sapphire. It
was here that a band groupie named Maria caught his eye.
He says that the song that sealed the deal was “You’re my
everything” by Santa Esmeralda. They
were married in 1984 and now live in Sugarland with their 4 children.
He is an original member of Easy Money and took a ten year hiatus to
spend time with his family and in his business.
He rejoined the band on New Year’s 2004.
He loves the current group members and thinks the band is better than
ever. If you are interested in the
“professional” side or Roland, visit his web site at:
http://www.tso.com/officepages/doctorsandstaff.aspx?id=10