About Blind Date

“Blind Date engages their audience, exhibits real musicianship, and knows how to get people on the dance floor.”

-AustinExperience.com

For over 20 years Blind Date has remained the hottest premiere wedding and private party band. Based in Austin Texas, the live music capital of the world, the band is comprised of the city's most accomplished musicians. Well known for their incredibly versatile repertoire - consisting of anything from dance music, to rock, jazz, country and hip-hop. The band performs in top venues all over the United States. Blind Date works with each client to compose the perfect song choices for their event. Unlike most bands that have a set list of songs that vary only a little from one event to another, Blind Date calls songs one at a time during performances to perfectly fit the mood of your event at any given moment. Want to request a song? No problem! Blind Date can easily make that happen. With over 400 songs to choose from and a state of the art choreographed light show, Blind Date will make the night perfect. When you book Blind Date you not only get an incredible high energy performance, but also unparalleled service throughout the entire planning of your event. Blind Date promises to be here for you to answer any questions and make your event one you will never forget!

Meet the Band

Click an image to learn more about our band members!

Justin

Trumpet

Raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Justin was fascinated with music at an early age, starting on piano at age 7 and moving to the cornet at age 10. He attended Northern Arizona University on a music scholarship, where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Musical Performance. Throughout his musical career, Justin has been fortunate to find himself immersed in many varied styles of music, including big bands, orchestras, brass quintets, salsa groups, mariachi, funk, soul, R&B, cover bands, and more. Yes, he wore the mariachi hat, and loved every minute of it. The most talented of multi-instrumentalists, Justin plays the trumpet, kazoo, egg shaker, and the occasional dropped microphone. Once in awhile, he looks at a guitar longingly.

Scott

Saxophone

Scott Benner is an accomplished saxophonist. Born in Texas, but well traveled, Scott has lived and worked in Los Angeles, New York, and Las Vegas. He graduated from the University of North Texas with a Degree in Jazz Performance where he was a member of the One O’Clock Lab Band and later received a Master of Music Degree from Texas State University. He has a wealth of experience in all musical styles and has played with a wide range of artists including Dizzy Gillespie, The Temptations, and Huey Lewis.

Jason

Drums

Jason Meekins’ interest in music started at age 4 when he started singing with his family’s gospel group. He has been called the “best drummer in Austin” and has had the privilege of playing with well respected musicians like: Israel Houghton, Beth Nielsen Chapman, and Randy Phillips of Phillips, Craig, and Dean. Jason can be seen playing on “Alabanza Real,” a nationally broadcasted Latin Music TV show. Jason brings feel and groove to Blind Date’s live performances. It’s hard not to dance when Jason’s keeping the beat!

Mike

Bass Guitar, Vocals

Mike Rosch is a first call bassist in Austin and surrounding areas. His versatility and abilities keep him very busy as he is consistently being asked to perform with various groups of all different styles, including jazz, rock, Latin, Salsa and country. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Texas State University and is recognized for his virtuosity on multiple instruments. In 2005, Mike was selected as the bassist for the first Hard Rock Café House Band and has won several other awards for his playing.

Mark

Guitar, Vocals

Mark Ellis is a graduate of the Texas State University Music Department. He taught electronic music composition at Texas State University and teaches guitar, piano, and saxophone at South Austin Music. Mark’s versatility on the guitar allows him to play numerous styles effortlessly including classical guitar, jazz, rock, and country. He has played with Harry Connick, Jr., members of George Strait’s band, and opened for many groups including the Dixie Chicks and Steve Vai.

Taz

Lead Vocals

Taz is a talented entertainer and possesses one of the most versatile singing voices in Austin. An accomplished performer, he has performed with many local acts and is well known in the Austin Music Scene. Taz’s enthusiasm on stage is infectious and he is known to do whatever it takes to get people dancing and having a great time. You haven’t seen anything until you’ve seen him belting out the songs of Earth Wind & Fire and Stevie Wonder!

Chelsea Lane

Lead Vocals, Guitar

Daughter of a Grammy nominated singer, Chelsea Lane was born and raised in a very musically talented household. She’s a singer and a songwriter as well, using her gifts as a guitarist and keyboardist to compose her own music. She has had the opportunity to study and perform in Australia, Guatemala, and different parts of Europe, which has played a huge role in helping her become the talented singer and musician she is today. There is no doubt whatsoever in saying that Chelsea Lane will bring a joyful exuberance and life to any party or event.