The Partoners

The finest Country and Western tribute band in the Newcastle and North East area

John Black

electric and acoustic guitars, mandolin, banjo, lead and backing vocals

John is highly experienced musician, both as a solo performer and a band member. As well as playing in the professional function band “Laughing Jacks” John has recently formed his own line up, The John Black Band

Richard Rutherford

Bass

Richard has been a professional musician for fifteen years. In that time he's played in cabaret, theatre and television situations as well as playing in bands fronted by musicians such as Mick Whitaker, Les Watts, Aaron Bayley and The Crosby Brothers. Richard now runs the band Laughing Jacks and was instrumental in the planning and formation of this new Dolly Parton Tribute Act.

Paul Smith

drums and percussion

Paul is one of the most highly regarded musicians in the North of England. His current touring commitments include Tony Christie, Joe Longthorne and Peter Grant. As well as live work, Paul is an in demand studio player. His past credits include Martin Stephenson, Sting, Jimmy Nail and Prefab Sprout.

Karl Peacock

piano and keyboards

Karl is a highly experienced band member and accompanist, having worked with many of the region's top commercial bands, as well as numerous singers and cabaret artists. He's recently played with The Paul James Band and The Taylor Moon Band as well as the well known local "Rat Pack" singer Paul Martin. As well as piano and keyboards Karl also plays saxophone to a professional standard.

Jeremy Stephens

sound engineer

Jeremy began his life with sound in the very capable hands of Les Penning who was Mike Olfields' sound engineer at a little studio just below Hergest Ridge. Since then he has sung 'Riff Raff' in the 'Rocky Horror Show' and played in touring bands; worked with 'Tori Amos' and 'Jools Holland', 'Billy Bragg', 'Reverend & The Makers', 'Martin Stephenson & The Daintees', and many, many more. While not mixing the sound for the 'The Dolly Parton Story' Jeremy makes feature films; produces music and plays a mad collection of percussion.