2 STEPS WEST

Profiles

Mari Thompson (rhythm guitar and vocals) born in Kentucky, moved to Arizona as a teenager. Mari's career in country music started at age 12 when she did live radio shows at WMST in Mt. Sterling, KY, then performing background for the gospel group "The Conways" in Nashville at 13. After moving to Arizona at the age of 16, Mari's enthusiasm and determination lead her to join the Arizona Songwriters Association, through which she was called upon to sing the opening theme song for W.D.L.Y., Dolly Parton's Smokey Mountain Opry Show in Severville, TN. Later performing in clubs, festivals and numerous other places including performing the National Anthem for rodeos. Mari joined (now defunct) the Cactus Rose show theater in Scottsdale, AZ, and found singing wasn't enough. She learned coreographed dancing and acting in skits, which only assisted in polishing her position in live stage music. Mari's transcendent vocals and skillful musicianship are a visible reason she's at the top of the most sought after female musicians in Arizona!

Garry Thompson (lead guitar and vocals) was born in Chicago, IL and moved to Arizona at the age of 5. Garry took classical guitar at 7 years of age, and by 12 he accompanied world renouned Flaminco dancer, Lydia Torrea at the Celebrity Theater in AZ. In high school Garry joined a rock band, and in his early 20's he headed for the road. Garry is one of the most sought after lead guitar players in Arizona. He moved to Nashville, in 1992, and learned the country ropes from the best. Among these was Dan Schaffer (Shania Twain's lead guitar player). Garry opened for many groups, such as: James House, Asleep at the Wheel, Collin Ray, Ty Herndon and Ty England. In addition to being a skillful lead guitarist, Garry's flawless vocals and harmony rank him with distinction in country music.

Ed Cini (drums). Performing in Phoeix for over twenty years, Ed has accomplished a lot in the business. He has backed up Country Music Hall of Famer, Hank Thompson, opened up concerts for Willie Nelson, The Kentucky Headhunters, Little Texas, and so many more. Ed also showcased his talents for the International Country Music Workshop in Nashville and at Country Thunder in Phoenix. He still studies all different styles of percussion. Ed's talents are a driving mainstay for 2 Steps West.

Steve Weitz (vocals, bass & sax). Steve is a very accomplished musician, playing and teaching several different instruments. He started in southern Indiana with his father's band. That's where the bug bit him to be a lifelong player, and he's played with some of the best in the country. He has opened for many big name acts like: Wynonna, Restless Heart, Bryan White, Tracy Lawrence, Blackhawk, Diamond Rio, The Mavericks, John Anderson and Trace Adkins just to name a few. Steve played with Prairie Rose since 1993 (also known as "The Tim and Willy Band" of KNIX in Phoenix), and is now the most recent addition to 2 STEPS WEST. Steve's outstanding talents serve to round out the musical excellence of 2 STEPS WEST

Check back soon for more information on scheduled appearances.