Biography

The Moonshine Racers are a North Carolina based band which performs a self described style of music called "Prograssive-Y'allternative". The band has existed since early 2001, and in that time has played numerous festivals, clubs, weddings and other private events and functions. Members have shared the stage with such musical greats as Doc Watson, Moe, Acoustic Syndicate, The Larry Keel Experience, former Newgrass Revival member and dobro wizard Curtis Burch, the Gibson Brothers, David Allen Coe, Goose Creek Symphony, Darrell Scott, Guy Clark, and the Seldom Scene among many others.

The band draws on a variety of influences including bluegrass, classic country, jazz, blues, old-time, gospel, rock and roll and American roots music. The individual members of the band have almost 100 years of combined musical experience among them.
Lead guitarist and vocalist Cito Giulini, combines his Latin upbringing (born in Caracas, Venezuela) and his classical guitar training to create a unique and compelling guitar style which can range from soft and subtle to towering and powerful. He is alumni of the popular North Carolina jam bands Liquid Sound and the Other People. Banjo player Tommy Rapé(pronounced rah-PAY) is a native of the Charlotte area and began playing at an early age in school bands. He started on stringed instruments with guitar but soon found his affinity for the banjo and started developing the "hot as a firecracker" style he still uses today. Bass player Rick Stapleton (who replaced original bass player Tim Conard in spring 2003 (Tim is still an occasional guest of the band), also received some of his earliest musical experiences in school band. Incidentally, Rick professionally repairs and maintains woodwind and brass instruments. His many years of experience with several different bands have solidified his fluid yet forceful bass style. In addition, his strong vocals add a whole new element to the band's sound. Lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Fudd McKinney draws upon his Appalachian mountain heritage and love of bluegrass and roots music to write songs that reach back into the past but are also firmly planted in the present. McKinney's passion is educating himself and others about the many varied musical styles he loves.

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