Tom and Ed's talents were brought together by a mutual friend and fellow musician; Dennis Cline. Dennis felt that Tom and Ed both were very accomplished musicians that play several different instruments and just about any style of music. Per his suggestion, they played their first gig in October 2020 and had a lot of fun entertaining the crowd and immediately bonded. Music has always been part of their lives. They both are connected through the power of music and enjoy sharing that connection with a crowd.
Picture from the April 2021 Shelbyville County Art Show
Ed Hill
Ed recently retired from a computer science position at the University of Illinois in Champaign, Il. Ed was born with a guitar in his hand (just checking to see if you are reading). Seriously, it was as if he could play the guitar the minute he picked it up at the age of 12. He played in his first band at the age of 14. He has always been an accomplished guitarist and can play any style of music. He also sings, plays bass, keyboards, and harmonica.
2d LT Tom Black (Korea 1982)
Tom Black
Tom is a retired military officer and veteran who served over 21 years on active duty. Starting out in Shelbyville, Illinois, in the 70s and 80s, he played drums and harmonica throughout grade school, high school and college and was a working musician. During his time in the service he managed to have a successful military career while still keeping music an integral part of his life. After retiring from the Army he continued to support the Department of Defense (DoD) as a Computer Systems Engineer for a Federally Funded Research Development Center (MITRE Corporation); while working as solo musician and member of different bands. Tom's musical journey has brought him back to his roots. He can be seen performing around Lake Shelbyville at Lithia Springs Marina, at the newly built 1905 Brewery in Assumption, and at private parties (to name a few). Music has always helped carry him through life.