About The Blue Underground
Learn about the professional musicians behind the sound.
Our Musical Journey
Introducing The Blue Underground, a dynamic blues/rock band formed in 2023. We merge a mix of Texas Blues with the rebellious spirit of classic rock.
Meet the Band Members
The Blue Underground (TBU) formed in 2023, bringing together a powerhouse lineup of
seasoned musicians with thousands of hours of stage experience. The band blends blues,
rock, and country into a high-energy performance that’s as thrilling to watch as it is to hear.
Behind the kit and steering the ship is Shawn Killion, drummer and manager, whose
leadership keeps TBU’s rhythm and direction tight. Jenn Bray commands the stage with
powerhouse lead vocals that captivate every audience. On guitars, the fiery Dru Thomas and
the soulful James Meeks form an unstoppable duo—trading licks, cutting heads, and
delivering blues segments that get the crowd moving. Ziggy Kennedy rounds out the lineup
with bass lines that punch through the mix and drive people to the dance floor.
Together, TBU brings unmatched energy, versatility, and authenticity to every performance.
From searing rock solos to groove-heavy blues, The Blue Underground guarantees an
electrifying live show you won’t forget.
Jenn Bray Vocals
Jenn Bray is a powerhouse vocalist whose roots run deep in Southwest Missouri. Now based in Northwest Arkansas, her musical journey began at just four years old, turning a rolled-up newspaper into her first microphone. By age twelve, she was touring the four-state region with her family’s band Kaleidoscope, and at fourteen she was already known in Branson as “the little girl with the big voice.” In her twenties, Jenn expanded her sound with Next of Kin, a versatile band that blended country, rock, and blues—genres that would define her unique style. After a 15-year break to focus on family, she returned in 2016 with Redwolf, a high-energy classic rock and blues cover band. As of 2024, Jenn is back on stage and stronger than ever. Influenced by Bonnie Raitt, Susan Tedeschi, Stevie Wonder, and Etta James, her voice is soulful, powerful, and unforgettable. Reuniting with her brother Shawn, Jenn is ready to bring passion and fire to every performance.
James Meeks Guitar/Vocals
James Meeks picked up the guitar at age ten in 1977, and it has been his passion ever since. Growing up playing music with his father, uncles, and cousins, he learned ’50s and ’60s country and outlaw country by ear, while his parents’ record collection exposed him to pop and surf rock from artists like The Ventures. Add in ’70s and ’80s radio hits and time with his high school jazz band, and James developed a wide-ranging set of influences that shaped his signature style. In his early 20’s, James co-founded Outrider with drummer Shawn Killion, beginning a musical brotherhood that has lasted more than 30 years. The band became a local sensation, delivering rock and country with fire and energy that earned them a loyal following. After Outrider, James played with numerous groups, including The Mark Chapman Band, Roughstock, Three Legged Dog, and Roadhouse. Today, as lead guitarist with The Blue Underground, James continues to play with heart, soul, and spontaneity—never the same way twice, but always unforgettable.
Dru Thomas Guitar/Vocals
Dru Thomas is a veteran guitarist with over 35 years of experience delivering soulful, electrifying performances across the Four-State area and beyond. His musical journey began on the violin in third grade, where he studied country and classical music before discovering ZZ Top and falling in love with the guitar. Since then, Dru has developed a versatile style rooted in blues, funk, rock, and smooth jazz, but the blues remain his truest passion. He began playing professionally in 1990 and, after a decade in ministry, returned to the stage with a Joplin-based band that opened for national acts including Pat Green and Brian Howe of Bad Company. For nearly nine years, Dru played in a regional band that became a staple at casinos such as Downstream, Indigo Sky, and Hard Rock Tulsa, as well as countless local venues. Known for his authenticity and dedication, Dru plays every show like it could be his last—delivering music full of heart, grit, and connection.
Joshua "Ziggy" Kennedy Bass/Vocals
Joshua “Ziggy” Kennedy has been rocking stages for more than 40 years, bringing an energetic style and full-throttle sound that fuses punk grit with blues soul. Born in San Diego and raised in Oklahoma, Ziggy found himself immersed in music at a young age. He picked up a guitar at six, started recording with bass by twelve, and never looked back. Through the years, Ziggy has played it all—country bands, blues bands, punk shows, and even rodeo gigs. His journey has taken him from blasting through punk sets to sharing stages with blues icons, all while building a reputation as a versatile and fearless performer. A true musical chameleon, Ziggy has explored Americana, singer-songwriter traditions, psychobilly rock, and everything in between. No matter the genre, his style is marked by authenticity, grit, and groove. Now, as bassist for The Blue Underground, Ziggy provides the backbone of the band’s sound—laying down rhythms so powerful that audiences can’t help but get up and move.
Shawn Killion Drums/Vocals
Shawn Killion began his lifelong love of drums at just three years old, playing alongside his drummer father. By five, he was already sitting in with his dad’s band at late-night jam sessions, developing the timing and feel that would become his signature. A left-handed drummer who mastered a right-handed kit, Shawn built a unique open-handed style that gave him speed, versatility, and an unmistakable groove. At seven, Shawn formed his first band, TKS Express, rehearsing daily in his family’s garage. They went on to win contests and even play the State FFA Convention in Columbia, MO. His younger sister Jenn joined as lead vocalist—a collaboration that continues to this day. At 17, Shawn left school early to tour nationally, performing five to six nights a week for three years before returning to Branson and the Midwest with family bands Kaleidoscope and Next of Kin. Later, with the powerhouse rock outfit Outrider, he earned acclaim across Missouri, winning the State Fair Battle of the Bands. Now, with The Blue Underground, Shawn brings decades of experience and passion to the stage, delivering the hard-hitting rhythms that drive the band’s electric sound.
Our Support System
Beyond our five vocalists/musicians, our commitment to professional excellence is supported by a dedicated digital manager, ensuring a smooth and polished experience for every client.
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