Crossroads began in 2002, in Bossier City, Louisiana, when founding member, John Kavanaugh decided to follow his dream of bringing together talented musicians of differing backgrounds to form a powerful, cohesive show band. Tailor made for the local casino market as well as the many festivals and major events of the area, Crossroads regularly plays to crowds throughout the Ark-La-Tex region.
Crossroads is and always will be about the music. Whether it be the New Orleans style brass, hot Texas guitar, or the incredible four and five part harmony, each member brings the best of his own style into the mix, creating a veritable crossroads of rock, blues, jazz, swing, and soul that explodes into the audience with a powerful energy that has to be experienced to be fully appreciated.
Get to know "The Boys-and a Girl-Your Momma Warned You About!"
John "Blinddog" Kavanaugh
Keyboards, Harmonica, Vocals
"The Boss" is at his best out in the crowd. A true entertainer, John formed Crossroads in 2002 to bring to the Ark-La-Tex a unique and powerful show band that can hold its own on any stage. Influences: Jerry Lee Lewis, Joe Cocker, B.B. King, Louisiana's LeRoux, Pete Terracina.
Tony "Tony D" Ditcharo
Alto & Tenor Sax, Guitar, Keyboards, Vocals
The consummate showman, Tony brings high energy and excitement to every performance. He is an award-winning musician with a music theory background and a talent for songwriting. Tony has been playing clubs in north Louisiana since the age of 13 and has been with Crossroads since 2002. Influences: Sam Butera, Ace Cannon, Eric Clapton, Ray Charles.
Chip "Lightnin' Boy" Goodwin
Lead Guitar, Vocals
Chip joined Crossroads in early 2006, adding flair and power to the band's performances with his masterful guitar licks. He has toured the U.S. and Canada with several artists as well as with his former band, Goin' Jesse. Chip has performed with Lori Morgan's band, Arkansas Blues Legend, Jo Jo Thompson, members of Michael Burks Blues Band, Greg Martin and Ricky Phelps of The Kentucky Head Hunters, and has opened shows for Billy Crash Craddock and The Bellamy Brothers.
John "Big John" Chapman
Bass, Vocals
John's musical career started in the 6th grade, playing trombone in the concert band. After hearing "Crazy Train," John decided to learn to play guitar. With 30 years of playing, he has picked up many varied styles such as blues, rock, country and more. John plays bass, lead, and slide guitar, and sings lead vocals and harmony. He has opened for David Allen Coe, Doug Stone, Blackfoot, Joe Stampley, and has shared the stage with Johnny Lee and others.
Mark "The Hammer" Brinkley
Drums
Mark has been playing drums for most of his life. His roots are pure Rock 'n Roll, with the diversity to play any style. A consummate drummer, Mark has toured the South with Porcupine, Blind Alley, Mississippi's Tony Henson & Company, and Aces & Eights, and has shared the stage with such notables as Ace Cannon, Rod Roddy of Louisiana's LeRoux, and Doug Supernaw, among others.
Marie Romano
Vocals, Keyboards
Marie is the latest addition to Crossroads. Having cut her teeth with Joey V. & the Vindicators, she steps on stage with soul, presence, and powerhouse vocals. Marie's love and talent for singing started when she was eight years old, singing Southern Gospel with her grandparents. Influences: Aretha Franklin, Stevie Nicks, Reba McEntire, Stevie Wonder, Susan Tedeschi, Grace Potter.