“Some of our patrons may remember Clay Ross as one of the lead members of the band, Matuto, who performed at The Matthews in Jan. of  2015. Matuto claims credit for getting our audience to do the very first Conga line in the opera house,” remarks Sian Young, The Matthews’ executive director. “We’re thrilled that Clay is coming back to Spearfish with Ranky Tanky,” Young continues.

Ranky Tanky first came together in 1998 to create a seminole quartet called “The Gradual Lean,” members being Clay Ross, Quentin Baxter, Kevin Hamilton, and Charlton Singleton. While this band remained local, its members went on to pursue solo careers. However, they always held on to the possibility of performing together again. Now, they have come back together, joined by vocalist Quiana Parler, to share Gullah music with the Spearfish community.

Gullah comes from a west African language and means “a people blessed by God.” The Gullah are the descendants of enslaved Africans who lived in the lowcountry regions of Georgia and South Carolina. They have developed a strong culture that has preserved much of the African linguistic and cultural heritage of various peoples.

Clay Ross (Guitar, Vocals) has established himself on the international music scene, winning multiple grants through the U.S. State Department and touring worldwide as a Cultural Ambassador. He currently tours with his NYC-based band, Matuto.

Quentin E. Baxter (Drums) is a Grammy-nominated musician/producer currently on tour with Freddy Cole and Rene Marie. He is a prominent figure in the jazz community in Charleston and is an adjunct professor of Jazz Studies at the College of Charleston.

Charlton Singleton (Trumpet, Vocals) is the Artistic Director and Conductor of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra. He has toured across Europe and throughout the United States.

Kevin Hamilton (Bass) is a celebrated artist in Charleston’s vibrant jazz scene. He has performed internationally with diverse ensembles such as The Charleston Jazz Orchestra, Houston Person, Gregory Hines, and Rene Marie.

Quiana Parler (Vocalist) has one of the most sought-after voices in the South Carolina Low-Country. She was discovered on the television show, “American Idol,” by Clay Aiken, with whom she toured with for seven years.