Bio

Bobby Thompson and the Groove

Funk and Soul infused Rockin' Blues

Bobby Thompson and The Groove (BTG) is an award-winning Funk and Soul infused Rockin' Blues band, from Beaver County, PA.  They are the winners of the 2019 Western PA Blues Challenge and competed in the 2020 International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN. BTG consists of four members (Bobby, Rich, Cody, and Rob). Bobby Thompson hails from Hopewell, PA  and is the 24-year-old virtuoso guitarist that the band is named after.  He has always had a passion for guitar and was influenced by his dad to start playing at the age of 5.  By 13, he was playing local clubs and was introduced to a number of influential musicians.  Awarded the opportunity to play at places such as Biketoberfest in Daytona Beach, FL and St. Hazards Resort on Middle Bass Island, he's been able to hone his skills as a musician. In 2019, he won the Jim Weber Guitarist of the Year Award.  Rich Mannion of Industry, PA is the seasoned veteran of the band. The keyboard is his instrument of choice, but he also has an incredible set of pipes, and you'll hear him carrying a good bit of the vocal weight at any given live show. Cody Fritzley from North Sewickley, PA is the force behind the drum kit, laying down a fat groove that provides an unparalleled energy.  13 years of on-stage experience has groomed him into what he is today.  Robert Sinchak of Ambridge, PA showcases his talent on bass.  After playing bass for the better part of the past 20 years, Rob has settled perfectly into a very unique, attention-demanding style.  He has the ability to control a song, simply, but musically and is a true bassist in every sense of the notion.  Together, they form a band with a style that nobody has heard before. A mixture of blues, rock, soul, funk, pop, and even a little bit of hip-hop.  Four musicians that are masters of their craft and have a love like no other for playing live...and it shows. From writing originals that are showcased in prestigious live challenges, to covering music of every decade and genre, BTG provides a unique and powerful performance that appeals to music fans of every age and preference.