The idea of Instrumental Oke is an accidental brainchild of Tom Sensabaugh. Tom or (Tommy) has played Guitar for over 40 years. After 20 + years with bands around Virginia and West Virginia Tom gave up the band, the late nights and opportunities for travel. He prefered his home and family life in the Shenandoah Valley. Through it all Tom was a successful business entrepreneur, both in and outside of music. Little did he know how important all the business knowledge and success would be to an unborn idea on the horizon. The urge to play guitar was always there. Tom finally decided to retire a little early, sold his Real Estate Business and other business interests, and got back to having fun with the guitar.
The search was on. Tom didn't want to get back into group jobs, band practice and late nights. He wanted to play the guitar for fun at home and for other small functions. The problem was, he didn't like electronic drum machines and other artificial sound. Tom wanted to play with the sound of a full band. He looked all over the internet for background tracks to accompany his lead guitar. Why should Karaoke be limited to vocals? What about all the pickers out there and what about all of those who want to be pickers? There were a few items found but not the right caliber, some Midi tracks were just too artificial for Tom.
There was only one thing to do. Tom decided to go into the studio with some old friends, record some of his favorite guitar songs, make one copy to listen to and one copy with the guitar removed so he could play with a full band anytime. But, as other pickers learned what he was about to do, they ask if he would make a copy for them. The idea started to brew. Just how many pickers might be looking for something similiar? Next step was a song list and a meeting with Robby at Alive studios.
Robby suggested that Tom go the extra mile, hire some studio musicians and keep the sound tracks more professional. Tom had already decided to keep the tracks close to the original recordings so he agreed. Pickers who purchase the CD would be familiar with the songs and could have a blast playing with the full band. The only difference would be that the band would be on the CD. The idea was in place. Eight months later the accidental idea is now a reality for everyone to enjoy.
Is it fun? You just gotta try it - it's more fun than a barrel of monkeys (whatever that means).
Is it a learning experience? Yes, practice with the full CD including guitar; when you're ready put in the OKE CD and you're the lead guitar
Is it Entertaining? You tell us!!!!
What's next? We have a list of things to come and are planning more. This first CD is the tip of the iceberg so stay tuned. Our financing is in place. Our only restraint is the number of hours in the day and our need to get a feel for the market. Instrumental Oke is not just for guitars you know!!!
Our goal - create full CD's for every listener to enjoy and band tracks for musicians who want to experience the excitement of playing with the authentic sound of a full band.