About Ross Holler
Ross Holler embodies the essence of authentic country music, a testament to the enduring legacy of the genre. Founded by Justin Defreece, Mike Henke, and Robert Ellison, three seasoned musicians with decades of touring experience, the band stands as a beacon of tradition in a rapidly evolving musical landscape. With their unwavering commitment to preserving the soulful sounds of "real country music," Ross Holler delivers a timeless repertoire that spans the decades from the 1960s to the 2000s.
At the forefront of Ross Holler's dynamic sound is Justin Defreece, whose soulful vocals and masterful guitar work set the stage on fire with each performance. Supported by Mike Henke's impeccable rhythm and Robert Ellison's solid bass lines, the trio crafts a sound that is both classic and captivating. From twangy honky-tonk tunes to poignant ballads, Ross Holler's live shows are unforgettable experiences, transporting audiences to a bygone era of authentic storytelling and raw emotion.
As true guardians of country music, Ross Holler invites listeners to join them on a journey through the heart and soul of the genre. With each note of their instruments and each heartfelt lyric, they honor the traditions of country music while injecting their own passion and energy into every performance. So, come and experience the magic of Ross Holler, where the spirit of real country music lives on.
Justin Defreece
Justin is a guitarist and multi instrumentalist who hails from the Pacific Northwest. He began playing guitar at age 10, taking lessons at local music stores, and later under the more formal instruction of professional musicians in the Portland area. He began performing professionally around the age of 19 with local groups. He went on to receive more instruction at Musician’s Institute and Portland State. Justin has toured nationally and internationally. He does session work, and has played on several albums and recording projects.
Justin is well versed in a multitude of musical styles and also plays some keyboard, bass, mandolin and fiddle. He continues to perform and teach lessons. Although he appreciates just about every musical style, his great loves are Rock, Jazz , and Roots Country .
Mike Henke
Mike began his venture into drumming when his mother bought him his first snare drum at age 7. Growing up and influenced by the Beatle Cartoons at a young age and later the music of the great drummers like John Bonham, Neil Peart, Steve Gadd, Phil Collins, Stewart Copeland and countless others.
Mike has played all styles of music from Rock to Country & Blues. A long career and graced to share the stage with artists like Brooks & Dunn, Montgomery Gentry, Gary Allan, Ashley McBride, Chris Jansen, Aaron Tippin, Collin Raye, Sammy Kershaw, and many many more.
Mike has recorded and worked with Rich Layton, Revolver (Beatles Tribute Show), Dr. G & The Spots, Jessie Leigh, Ryan Oetkin, currently with Kurt Van Meter and others. Mike is always performing and recording throughout the year all over the U.S.
Robert Ellison
Robert has kept the low end for his band mates with his bass guitar for over four decades. He began playing in a small church in Fort Smith, Arkansas in the late 70s, where he learned from local musicians and entertainers. After highschool and a few years of college, he established himself as a touring bassist with country and blues acts, playing coast to coast. Robert has appeared as the studio bassist and vocalist on two full length albums. He has many other recordings to his credit. Robert’s bands have been the opening act for many notable artists such as George Jones, Delbert McClinton, Alabama, Tim McGraw and many others. His influences include Donald “Duck” Dunn, Mike Porcaro of Toto, Anthony Sallee of White Heart and many others.