The band members of Player, the American rock band renowned for their 1978 chart-topping hit Baby Come Back, have evolved dynamically since the group’s formation in 1976. Originating from Los Angeles, California, the band members of Player have changed over the decades, reflecting both their personal journeys and the shifting landscape of the music industry.
Formation and Original Lineup (1976-1978)
The inception of Player can be traced back to a serendipitous meeting between English musician Peter Beckett and J.C. Crowley at a party in Los Angeles. Both artists, sharing a passion for music, decided to collaborate, leading to the formation of Player. They were soon joined by Ronn Moss and John Friesen, solidifying the original quartet.
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Peter Beckett: Hailing from Liverpool, England, Beckett was the lead vocalist and guitarist. Before forming Player, he was a member of the progressive rock band Paladin.
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J.C. Crowley: Serving as the vocalist and keyboardist, Crowley brought a unique blend of musical talents to the group.
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Ronn Moss: On bass and vocals, Moss contributed to the band’s harmonious sound. He later gained fame as an actor, notably portraying Ridge Forrester on the soap opera “The Bold and the Beautiful.”
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John Friesen: As the drummer, Friesen provided the rhythmic backbone of the band.
This lineup achieved significant success with their debut single, “Baby Come Back,” which soared to No. 1 on the U.S. charts in 1978.
Transitional Years and Subsequent Lineups (1979-1995)
Following their initial success, Player experienced several changes in their lineup:
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Miles Joseph (Guitar/Vocals): Joined during the early 1980s, contributing to the band’s evolving sound.
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Gabriel Katona (Keyboards): Added depth to the band’s arrangements with his keyboard skills.
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Rusty Buchanan (Bass/Vocals): Stepped in on bass and vocals during the early 1980s, particularly noted during the recording of the “Spies of Life” album.
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Tony Sciuto (Keyboards/Vocals): Joined in the late 1990s, bringing experience from his tenure with the Little River Band.
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Steve Farris (Guitar): Known for his work with Mr. Mister, Farris played guitar for Player during tours in the late 1990s.
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Michael Hakes (Guitar): Contributed as a guitarist in the early 2000s until his untimely passing in 2003.
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Craig Pilo (Drums): Joined as a drummer in the early 2000s, providing rhythmic stability.
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Dave Amato (Guitar): Also known for his work with REO Speedwagon, Amato played guitar for Player during tours in the late 1990s.
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Ron Green (Percussion/Vocals): Added percussive elements and vocals during live performances in the late 1990s.
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Rob Math (Guitar): Joined as a guitarist in the late 2000s, contributing to live performances.
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Buster Akrey (Keyboards/Vocals): Brought in during the late 2010s, known for his work on the “Power Rangers” music.
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Burleigh Drummond (Drums): Also a member of Ambrosia, Drummond played drums for Player during tours in the late 1990s.
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Mark Winley (Bass): Stepped in on bass during live performances in the late 2010s.
These members, among others, contributed to Player’s evolving sound and continued presence in the music scene.
Reunion and Recent Developments (2007-Present)
In 2007, Player reunited with a lineup featuring:
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Peter Beckett: Returning as the lead vocalist and guitarist.
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Ronn Moss: Resuming duties on bass and vocals.
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Craig Pilo: On drums.
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Ron Green: Handling percussion and vocals.
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Ricky Zacharaides: On guitar.
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Ed Roth: On keyboards.
By 2009, Rob Math (guitar) and Johnny English (keyboards) had replaced Zacharaides and Roth. This lineup performed at various venues, including a notable reunion with J.C. Crowley in 2009 for a tribute concert benefiting the Desert Arc Foundation.
In 2013, Player released the album “Too Many Reasons” and participated in the Sail Rock Tour alongside artists like Christopher Cross and Gary Wright. However, by mid-2017, Ronn Moss departed from the band, leading to the formation of “Ronn Moss’ Player.” Peter Beckett continued to perform under “Peter Beckett’s Player,” maintaining the band’s legacy.
Comparison of Key Band Members
The following chart provides a comparative overview of some of the key members who have shaped Player’s sound over the years:
| Member | Role | Tenure | Notable Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peter Beckett | Vocals/Guitar | 1976–present | Co-writer of “Baby Come Back”; consistent presence throughout the band’s history. |
| J.C. Crowley | Vocals/Keyboards | 1976–1979 | Co-founder; co-writer of “Baby Come Back.” |
| Ronn Moss | Bass/Voc |
Conclusion about band members of player
Player has remained a beloved name in rock music, thanks to its timeless hit Baby Come Back and the talented musicians who have contributed to its journey. While the band’s lineup has changed over the years, Peter Beckett has remained a consistent force, keeping the Player legacy alive. Whether through reunions, new albums, or solo projects, the band’s influence endures, proving that great music stands the test of time.
