Mike Whittaker
Keyboards, Musical Director
A native of Detroit, Mike Whittaker began piano lessons at the age of four and took up the drums at age nine. His exceptional talent on both instruments earned him recognition at regional, statewide, and national competitions throughout his youth. After graduating from high school, Mike toured professionally as a drummer before joining the United States Navy Band in 1982 as a Piano/Keyboard Instrumentalist. During his distinguished 20-year military career, he performed with and led a wide variety of ensembles, including pop/rock bands, big bands, jazz trios, concert bands, marching bands, and as a solo pianist. He has also performed with Lee Greenwood, The Judds, Exile, and numerous cover bands across the country. Mike co-founded the Washington, D.C.-based Latin jazz group Afro-Bop Alliance, recording and performing throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. He is also an accomplished producer, arranger, composer, and recording engineer, with experience spanning big band, Latin jazz, folk, and gospel projects. Throughout his civilian and military career, Mike has performed for two U.S. Presidents, numerous high-ranking dignitaries, and audiences across all 50 states and in 37 countries. Today, as keyboardist and Musical Director for Yacht Rock & Soul, Mike delivers the signature keyboard sounds, lush harmonies, and sophisticated arrangements that define the Yacht Rock genre. His lifetime passion for music, combined with decades of leadership and performance experience, helps keep every show on course for an unforgettable musical voyage.
Kevin Underwood
Percussion and Vocals
Kevin first charted the course for this band after years performing with some of Metro Detroit's premier Motown and Classic Soul bands, including FunkeeStation and RocknSoul. His vision was to bring together world-class musicians to celebrate the smooth sounds and timeless hits of Yacht Rock. The heartbeat of the voyage... percussionist and founder Kevin Underwood.
Robert Joiner
Bass and Vocals
Robert Joiner has a colorful musical history as he began playing instruments at an early age. By elementary school Robert was playing the French horn and trombone. In high school he learned to play the electric bass guitar. While attending Detroit Mackenzie High School, Robert joined stage band. Following high school, his musical journey only expanded as he began to play with local bands at various venues. In 1987 he joined the Detroit Police Department and later in his police career, joined the iconic Detroit Police “Blue Pigs Band.” Robert carried on the tradition of The Blue Pigs until early 2013. Robert Joiner also co-founded the band T.H.I.Q.U.E, (The Highest In Quality Unique Entertainment). He has also had the privilege of traveling the world playing for high profile events and opening for famous entertainers such as Earth, Wind and Fire, Aretha Franklin and more. Please welcome the man who drops the anchor and locks down the low end.
Rich Scalzi
Drums and Vocals
Rich Scalzi is a drummer whose career is defined by a deep-rooted passion forclassic rock, pop, and soul. With a foundation in performance that began at the remarkable age of five, when he first picked up drum sticks, Rich has spent a lifetime mastering the art of rhythm and melody. Growing up in the legendary music scene of Detroit, Michigan, Rich cut his teeth playing with a multitude of local rock bands. This invaluable experience instilled in him the work ethic, versatility, and dynamic stage presence. Today, he channels this eclectic background into being the driving force behind Yacht Rock and Soul, a project that perfectly encapsulates his musical maturity. He's the Captain of the Pocket!
Andy Markowitz
Guitar and Vocals

Bringing you the smooth sounds of classic yacht rock, this talented tribute band excels at creating unforgettable performances.
Mike Martinez
Lead Vocals
A true entertainer who brings charisma, passion and a magnetic stage presence to every performance with Yacht Rock and Soul. Commanding the stage: Mike Martinez.