
Playing a broad mix of timeless rock 'n roll, country, blues, and R&B, John Paul Keith & the 145s are the kind of act they just don’t make anymore — an honest-to-goodness, straight-up, rock 'n roll party band.
Whether it's Memphis rockabilly like Carl Perkins, New Orleans boogie like Fats Domino, instrumental soul like Booker T. & the MGs, Bakersfield honky-tonk like Buck Owens, or Freddie King-style Texas guitar workouts, the 145s have carved-out a niche for themselves as the region's most refreshing roadhouse band.
Coming up through the city's rowdy, late-night dive scene, this is the kind of group that could only have come from Memphis, and it shows. You won't hear anything from today's Top 40 in their sets — the 145s pound out classics and B-sides from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. But don't mistake them for rockabilly revivalists or roots purists — they put their own stamp on the music they love, regardless of genre or period. Nor should they be confused with a run-of-the-mill oldies act. These guys may play their share of Chuck Berry, for example, but they'll play the Chuck Berry tunes you never hear.
JPK has recorded two albums on the renowned Fat Possum label. Above all, this is the kind of band you just can't help but get up and dance to. If you're looking for a fresh, exciting group that stays true to the fundamentals of rock 'n roll, look no further than John Paul Keith & the 145s.
"JPK and the boys burned the damn house down, much to the delight of our guests. They play that timeless American music that appeals to all ages, so it was good to see the oldsters boogie out on the floor along the youngsters. A renowned local historian, who usually maintains a professorial demeanor, was even doing The Twist while loudly proclaiming South Carolina as the birthplace of that wacky dance. Good times! REG was courteous, attentive, and professional. I recommend them highly." -- Porter Barron, Columbia, SC
"Playing in a style suggestive of Chuck Berry, John Paul is an understated talent who handles complicated riffs with ease. His music is inspired by early rock 'n roll, reminiscent of Buddy Holly and Sun Records." -- Stephanie Thomas, Birmingham Magazine
"Instead of having a traditional wedding band, we hired JPK and the 1-4-5's, who we love seeing play venues around Memphis. It was great fun to expose our family and friends to their music, and we had an incredible time dancing!" -- Clay Hughley
"Epic multi-set concerts, highlighted by a mix of roots-rock covers... a joyous, entertaining burst of music." –- Memphis Commercial-Appeal
"A vibrant, nimble country twist on the city's latent roots-rock/bar-rock style." -- Memphis Flyer
"Perhaps the most pleasurable sound in Memphis music right now." –- Memphis Magazine
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