Ralph Woodson – guitar, lead vocal
Ralph Woodson certainly knows his Hendrix.
He has studied his idol to the point of being able to play the guitar behind his back, and with his teeth. Ralph’s a Hendrix authority, and it’s obvious when you see him perform.
The youngest of nine, he grew up in Richmond, CA, and was initially struck by the sound of the “Band of Gypsys” record. Ralph has toured with Hedzoli Sounds (of which Hugh Masekela was a member), as well as The Mighty Diamonds, Lady Bianca, Faye Carol, and the Trichromes (which included Journey’s Neil Schon and Bill Kreutzmann from the Grateful Dead). With the Trichromes and later with the Sy Klopps Blues Band, Ralph played on big stages opening for Tower of Power, James Brown, ZZ Top, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, among others. He’s appeared at the College of Marin and on KFOG-FM with author/Hendrix expert Steve Roby, demonstrating the sound and techniques of Jimi Hendrix.
Ralph formed the Ralph Woodson Experience in 2001 (which became Purple Haze in 2010), focusing on the Hendrix material that he grew up with and always loved. Purple Haze has gained a steady following in the Bay Area and knock people out wherever they go. Ralph’s showmanship and command of the Hendrix material is second to none. See it for yourself!
Pete Roberts – bass, backing vocal
Pete began enjoying music at a very early age – he was playing drums and piano by the age of five.
By the time he was twelve, he was playing bass and guitar, inspired by bassists Chris Squire, John Entwistle, John Paul Jones, and Geddy Lee. He’s been playing professionally since then, with the likes of Dan Matrazzo, Jeff Sipe (aka Apt-Q258), and Yonrico Scott (formerly of the Derek Trucks Band). He has logged thousands of miles on the road and has appeared at several festivals, including the Atlanta Jazz Festival and the Sonora Blues Festival. Pete’s solid bass playing is ‘the heartbeat of the band’, according to Ralph.
Leo Vigil – drums, backing vocal
Leo Vigil is one of California’s premiere drummers, and he's a big part of Purple Haze's sound. He can pound lightning-fast double bass rhythms, and can accent with subtle tones and sounds on the drum set. His drum solos are incredible, using a blend of fantastic chops and sensitivity, a combination rarely found on the drum kit.
His versatility keeps him busy - whether it is Rock, Jazz, Metal, Latin, Funk, Reggae, Blues, Country, or Soul - he is proficient at all styles. His many skills have allowed him to share the stage with such well-known performers as: Eddie Money, Ronnie Montrose, Rick Derringer, Elvin Bishop, Foghat, Y&T, Night Ranger, Three Dog Night, B.J. Thomas, Boz Skaggs, Greg Kihn, The Untouchables, The Rippingtons, Poncho Sanchez, Greg Adams, The Crusaders, Craig Chaquico, Clint Black, Billy Gibbons, Joe Satriani, Booker T, and Greg Errico.