The Gator Creek Band was founded and established in Venice on July 4th, 2003 by Michael Frank in Venice, Florida. The 5-piece full band features award-winning female vocalist Heather Frank, but also maintains the electrifying guitar works of Michael Frank. Add in Dennis Johnson on rhythm guitar and vocals, TJ on percussion and vocals, and Faron Connelly on bass and vocals, and you have the complete live contemporary country music package for any occasion. You have found the Hottest Southwest Florida's Country Band serving Sarasota, Venice, Tampa, Englewood, Ft. Myers, Port Charlotte, and Bradenton.

Biographies

Heather Frank - lead vocals
I have lived in the Venice Florida area for over 25 years. As a member of school chorus since the age of 10, I have come to enjoy singing and the joy it brings to others. Country music has been an inspiration for me since The Judds began their career. Listening to their harmony has intrigued and inspired me to develop my own voice and style. Performing with the Gator Creek Band gives me the opportunity to share with others the music that I have come to love so much. I look forward to sharing it with you at our next show.

Michael Frank - lead guitar, vocals
When I started playing guitar at age twelve, I remember proclaiming, “When I grow up I either want to be a musician or an artist.” As it turns out, I have become both. Music has always been an important part of my life. My father enjoyed the Big Band sound, my mother listened to the oldies, and my brothers and sisters liked everything from Edgar Winter to Simon & Garfunkel, all of whom influenced my playing. Soon I began to play rock and contemporary Christian music as well as to experiment with jazz. I later became intrigued with Country music as it began to incorporate elements of rock and blues while still retaining the unique elements that make it a special musical form. I believe that Country music talks to everyone at some level or at some point. It speaks of real life issues from the heart – sometimes humorous, sometimes serious and sometimes sad. I'm proud to be a part of today’s Country music and am very fortunate to be able to perform with Heather, Dennis, TJ and Faron in the Gator Creek Band. See you soon!

Dennis Johnson - rhythm guitar/vocals
Music has always been an important part of my life. I began singing with my family at a young age and from there my love of music grew. I later joined the school chorus and the church choir, before continuing to sing in college. Having exposure to many different styles and genres of music through these varied groups gave me a deep appreciation and understanding of vocal harmonies. In high school, I taught myself to play the guitar so that I could accompany myself and friends when we would get together to sing. Being a part of The Gator Creek Band has been special for me, not just for the enjoyment I get through sharing music and friendship with others, but because it brings me back to a time and a place where I was learning and growing as a musician so many years ago.

TJ - percussion
Taking inspiration from the Honky Tonks of Nashville and country music from the 1930s up to today, TJ is all about pickin’ it like it’s red hot!!! Don’t worry folks, he plays music much better than his lame jokes…!!!

Faron Connelly - bass
Faron brings a lot ot the table. He is a well-rounded, talented musician including the ability to play many instruments. With years of experience, he tops off the Gator Creek Band's potential.

Sarasota Country Bands

Looking for a great country band to perform at your next private event, public event, or concert? Look no further! The Gator Creek Band is a country music band composed of local country musicians. Florida country music at its best!

Looking for a band for your wedding in Sarasota County? Hire the Gator Creek Band at an affordable price. Contact us for details.

We are willing to travel within reason. We serve Sarasota County, Manatee County, and Charlotte County in Florida. They include Bradenton, Venice, Englewood, Port Charlotte, Fort Myers, and North Port,to name a few.

We are a professional country band. Our performances are conducted with integrity. At the same time, we love to have fun with country music fans alike!