Personal Interests

One of the great gifts of God to humanity is the “Arts.” Whether we are viewing a painting, sculpture, a dramatic presentation at a play or theatre, an oral presentation, or a concert, we are gripped by a person’s ability to create an affect on our mind and emotions. Even greater than observation, is the gift to participate.

My hobby is playing the banjo. Bluegrass music is not an oxymoron! This genre of folk music is a part of the soul of southern American culture. It is not to be confused with typical “country music.” It is a folk form, focused on performance on acoustic instruments and vocal arrangements. Much of the discography relates to family, home, mother, the pains and joys of life. Gospel music constitutes nearly 1/3 of this genre’s history.

I currently perform with one of Southwest Michigan’s premier bands, Deadwood (the name is derived from the old wood used for making the best instruments). We play traditional and gospel selections.

Deadwood Band

I currently perform with one of Southwest Michigan’s premier bands, Deadwood (the name is derived from the old wood used for making the best instruments). We play traditional and gospel selections.

Please visit: www.deadwoodbluegrass.com for more information.

Deadwood is a Southwest Michigan band whose roots began in 1978. The two original members of the band are Cork Babcock and Steve Carroll. As the band evolved, Ron Sanford joined to play bass and Gary Meadors to add his banjo and vocal talents.

Steve Carroll - Fiddle, Guitar, and Vocals
Born in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, Steve now makes his home in Mendon, Michigan. As a seasoned musician, Steve not only brings his instrumental talent to the band, but also has a large repertoire of songs. His outgoing personality automatically slates him to be the front man for the band. Because of his passion for bluegrass, Steve has a broad knowledge of bluegrass history. Steve is a founding member of Deadwood.

Cork Babcock - Mandolin and Vocals
Hailing from Three Rivers, Michigan, Cork has the important job of educating and inspiring children at Barrow’s Elementary School. Aside from his musical interest, Cork is an avid beekeeper and proprietor of Babcock‘s Apiary. When he is not coaxing a melody out of his mandolin, he volunteers his time to community projects. Cork is also a founding member of Deadwood.

Gary Meadors - Banjo and Vocals
Gary was born in Connersville, Indiana, an area that is no stranger to bluegrass, although it was not until later in life that he decided to try his hand at playing the music he enjoys. Gary now lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan. When not playing bluegrass, Dr. Gary Meadors makes his living as a Professor of Greek at Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids. Gary has also authored a number of items in his field.

Ron Sanford - Bass and Vocals
Another resident of Mendon , Michigan, Ron adds the bottom end to the band’s overall sound. Aside from playing bluegrass, Ron is interested in the recording process that accompanies it. He makes his real money in the quality assurance department of a medical nutritional/infant formula company.