Tom Shields- guitar, vocals,
songwriting
Jim Biddell- drums and vocals
Ric Ervin- lead
guitar
Thomas Wilson- bass
Jerry Kee- guitar, keyboard,
percussion
Jim
Smith- guitar, Martyr's Lifeour history
Big Society started in the early 90's as a backup band for the first Tom Shields album (originally issued as a cassette). Early in the sessions Jerry Kee played drums and Bo Taylor (see alumni) was on lead guitar. Mr. Taylor's band at the time (Motorcaster) left for a tour and Jerry had production work to do. Tom Shields set out to put a more permanent band together.
It was in the a downtown Raleigh club that he saw King's Dream playing one evening and at a break he approached Jim Biddell and Ric Ervin about working on the stalled project. Thomas Wilson stayed as the Bass player and Jim became the Big Society drummer and Ric the lead guitarist. This core of players has not changed 15 years later although guests through the ages have included: Sarah Bell - mandolin; Danny Moses - piano; Bo Taylor - guitar; Jim Smith- guitar.
Additionally, Jerry Kee became the primary producer and engineer and as well as the jack of all trades; appearing on each disc playing various parts- guitar, percussion, keyboards...
Duck Kee Studios remains as home base for all Big Society adventures.