Code Blue
The roots of Code Blue stretch all the way back to the 1970’s in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The band’s precursor was known as Beg, Borrow, and Steal; two of the original members of that lineup remain in the band as it exists today. The band is composed of Niles Ellis and Mike Hampton on guitar and vocals, drummer/vocalist Roger Buttrum, multi-keyboardist Larry Satterlee, and lead vocalist/bassist/guitarist Matt Lewis.
Code Blue specialize in performing a perfect mixture of material spanning from the 60’s through today – old favorites you know and love, and songs that make you say “Wow, I haven’t heard that in years!” British Invasion, Southern Rock, Funk, even a hint of country flavor – with Code Blue you’ll hear it all!
Niles
Ellis – guitar, vocals
A native of Hot Springs, Niles formed his first band in the 7th grade and hasn’t stopped since. Known for his impeccable tone and trademark Fender Stratocasters, he’s equally at home playing funk, hard rock, pop, or country-flavored licks. When he’s not too busy with guitar, he’s equally at home adding lead and backing vocals.
Mike
Hampton – guitar, bass, percussion, vocals
Another Hot Springs native, and along with Ellis, one of the two members of the original 70’s band. Versatility is his calling card – from one song to the next you never know if he’ll be playing acoustic 6 or 12-string, electric, bass guitar, or some sort of percussion. Mike is the wild card in the Code Blue lineup, and they are heavily dependant on his multi-instrumental skills.
Roger
Buttrum – drums, vocals
A 30 year veteran of the Hot Springs and central Arkansas music landscape, Roger is known for his solid, metronome-steady beats and tasteful vocals. Neither flashy nor solo-obsessed, but always “right in the pocket” and an integral part of the band’s signature 4-part harmony.
Larry
Satterlee – keyboards
“Fuzzy”, as his friends know him, is yet another 30-plus year veteran of the Hot Springs music community. His unmistakable sound alternates between articulate classically-twinged piano; thick, swirling rock-flavored Hammond organ; and entire brass and string sections. As the newest band member, his presence brings capabilities that never existed for the band before.
Matt
Lewis – lead vocals, bass, guitar
Growing up on the coast and 20 years in the central California music scene gave bass guitarist Lewis a different musical perspective. He co-anchors the bottom end and occasionally re-visits the electric guitar, which he still calls his “first love”. An unabashed Beatle fan, his “British Invasion” influences are clearly heard in his singing, guitar, and bass lines.