Ralph Woodson’s Purple Haze is not your typical tribute band.
He has studied his idol to the point of being able to play the guitar behind his back, and with his teeth. Ralph’s a Hendrix authority, and it’s obvious when you see him perform.
The youngest of nine, he grew up in Richmond, CA, and was initially struck by the sound of the “Band of Gypsys” record. Ralph has toured with Hedzoli Sounds (of which Hugh Masekela was a member), as well as The Mighty Diamonds, Lady Bianca, Faye Carol, and a Bill Kreutzmann (Grateful Dead)/Sy Klopps (Herbie Herbert) collaboration called the Trichromes. With the Trichromes and later with the Sy Klopps Blues Band, Ralph played on big stages opening for Tower of Power, James Brown, ZZ Top, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, among others. He’s appeared at the College of Marin and on KFOG-FM with author/Hendrix expert Steve Roby, demonstrating the sound and techniques of Jimi Hendrix.
Ralph formed the Ralph Woodson Experience in 2001 (which became Purple Haze in 2010), focusing on the Hendrix material that he grew up with and always loved. Purple Haze has gained a steady following in the Bay Area and knock people out wherever they go. Ralph’s showmanship and command of the Hendrix material is second to none.
Pete Roberts (bass, backing vocal) enjoyed music at a very early age and began playing bass and guitar when he was twelve. Pete has logged thousands of miles on the road and has appeared at several festivals, including the Atlanta Jazz Festival.
Leo Vigil (drums) dynamic and aggressive playing brings new life to the project. Leo is an in demand session drummer all over California and has played or recorded with Carlos Reyes, Steve Miller and Dave Koz among many others.
