Prescott Now: How long have you been playing?
Wheelhouse: Some of us have been performing together for the past 10 years or so.
Nick Guzzo, guitar and vocals, has lived in Prescott for the past 40 years and has played in a host of bands. His lead playing prowess is eclipsed only by his love for people and his sense of humor.
Becky Ryniak, lead vocalist (and cowbell player) has lived in Prescott for the past 27 years. She began singing at age 5. She has performed locally with rock/country/blues bands, duos, trios and worship bands.
Greg Paul, guitar, keys, and vocals, hails from New York City, having been a professional singer and musician for many years. He is also a local radio personality and movie producer, active in the arts and entertainment industry in Arizona.
Gary VanSlyke, bass and vocals, has been playing bass and singing with multiple groups since the ‘70s, along with 12 years on the road as a touring and studio musician.
John Warmouth (the newest member), drummer, has been playing since 1967. His musical journey began with hits of the day to progressive rock, hard rock and blues.
Prescott Now: What genre of music do you play?
Wheelhouse: Nick knows almost every lead in the classic rock and roll tunes of the ‘70s and ‘80s.
Becky loves classic country and ‘70s rock. And, she toured with a madrigal group her sophomore year of college.
Greg has headlined at large entertainment venues as well as traveled with a Santana tribute band, to name a few.
Gary’s influences stem to his New York roots, Chicago, BST, Tower of Power.
John’s influences include Gene Krupa, John Bonham, Philly Joe Jones and Ian Paice.
Prescott Now: What is the key to being a successful musical act in Prescott and Northern Arizona?
Wheelhouse: We strive to bring back cherished memories through songs our audiences once loved and bring joy to them as they recall those special times from their past, while they dance and even sing along.
Prescott Now: What’s the smallest audience you’ve played for; the biggest?
Wheelhouse: Members have individually performed for thousands in stadiums and larger venues. We have collectively played for small groups, too, such as our local U.S. Veterans family center, as well as resident groups at Touchmark retirement community, car shows, fundraisers, bike rallies, weddings and other celebrations.
Prescott Now: Where do you find inspiration?
Wheelhouse: Music is complete healing, on so many levels. Nick concludes that, as many musicians will tell you, there are palatable degrees of dopamine and endorphins that flood our systems when we share the symbiotic connections with our audiences.
Prescott Now: What brought you to Prescott?
Wheelhouse: Nick visited from Chicago with his family. They were attracted to its beauty and moderate climate. They relocated the family business; he remains the owner/operator of Anthony’s Restorations on South Montezuma.
Becky, an Arizona native, grew up in Wickenburg and relocated from Scottsdale after a career as a probation officer. She was drawn to Prescott, as a place often visited, to escape the heat and headaches of the big city. Becky and Nick are also longtime Realtors at West USA Realty of Prescott.
Greg has family in Prescott and moved here during COVID — NYC’s loss our gain!
Gary retired here from the Valley after a lengthy career with the phone company. Prescott’s mild four seasons reminds him of his hometown in central New York.
John and his wife moved here from California after learning that Prescott had the small town feel and the many amenities they so enjoy.
