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Meet The Band

Get to know the members who make up Taylor Made, St. Louis' Premier Taylor Swift Experience. They share details on who they are, what they do, and why Taylor Swift?! 
Courtney Diamond

Who are your musical influences?
Taylor Swift (duh), Martina McBride, Hayley Williams

What is your music background?
Oooh, boy-where do I start? I first began classical voice training in 6th grade and studied under many different incredible vocal instructors in my “career” (thanks to all!!!). I graduated with a minor in Vocal Performance from SIUE and my bachelor’s degree in radio. In my lifetime, I have performed in countless musicals (most of which with Clinton County Showcase) and was a member of the St. Louis Symphony Chorus. I also volunteer as the Assistant Show Choir director at Highland High School and have been a member of many director teams for youth musicals.

Why a Taylor Swift Tribute Band?
The simple answer is that I love Taylor. She transcends all genres and is the exception to my dislike of most pop and most current songs on the radio. I was raised on KSHE 95, so that’s more my style. But Taylor could release a 3-hour clip of her cats playing the piano and I’d still love it because it’s her. When I was first approached about this project, I was so excited to put my own spin on songs that defined specific “eras” of my own life. Extra bonus that my Taylor-loving sister and best friend, Hollyn, and I get to do this together!!!

Anything else you want us to know?
I AM NOT A TAYLOR SWIFT IMPERSONATOR NOR AM I DELUSIONAL ENOUGH TO THINK I AM HER. I just love her and love to sing. Perfect combo.

 


Mark Pilkerton

Who are your musical influences?
Ian Thornley, Peter Gabriel, Sting, Paul Gilbert, melodies and hooks

What is your musical background?
I am a self taught player, grateful for a variety of past musical experiences.

Why a Taylor Swift Tribute Band?
I’m a big fan of well-written pop songs, and what’s not to like about all of the well-crafted songs that were written, recorded, and performed by Taylor Swift. With this line up, I feel our performances are something special we can share with all Swifties, especially those that have never had the opportunity to attend a Taylor Swift concert.

 

 

Bailey Drone

Who are your musical influences?
John Mayer (yikes right?), Vince Gill, Eric Johnson, Keith Urban, and NEEDTOBREATHE just to name a few.

What is your musical background?
My dad has played in bands since he was a teenager. I stared playing guitar because of him and started a band with him backing me up. From solo gigs for fundraisers to being in a “meme cover band,” I’ve kind of done it all.

Why a Taylor Swift Tribute Band?
My favorite part of live music is when people get into it and have fun. And what artist has a more hyped following than Taylor? I’m really excited for Swifties to get to have fun and enjoy the music they love for a few hours.

Anything else you want to share?
If I’m not playing guitar, I’m probably watching or am otherwise engaged in Star Wars-related activity. I even have a guitar that I’ve named Darth Vader.

 

 

Hollyn Diamond

Who are your musical influences?
Taylor Swift (obviously!), Phoebe Bridgers, and Hayley Williams!

What is your music background?
I’ve been singing my whole life, played piano since I was 5, and taught myself guitar! (both acoustic and electric) My entire family is musical in one way or another!

Why a Taylor Swift Tribute Band?
Taylor truly has raised me. From listening to Fearless on the school bus every morning and blasting my 1989 CD in my bedroom to meeting her at midnight for her latest releases, she has been there every step of the way. She is unmatched in her achievements when it comes to her music and her impact on the world, and that deserves a million tributes.

Anything else you want us to know?
I’m so very Enchanted to bring this experience to the stage!

 

 

Jared Bensman

Who are your musical influences?
Allman Brothers, Dr. John, Bobby Caldwell, and Danny Gatton.

What is your music background?
Started playing at a young age playing in lots of local bands. I come from a musical family so there was always an opportunity to get in a jam with somebody. I played in Orchestra in high school.

Why a Taylor Swift Tribute Band?
Why not a Taylor Swift tribute band?

Anything else you want us to know?
I really enjoy watching live music, playing video games, and working on guitars.

 

 

Jacob Pullen

Who are your musical influences?
Chris Squire (YES), Pino Palladino, Charles Mingus, and every bassist to ever hold down the low end and the rhythm behind the band.

What is your music background?
I come from a very musical family. Every generation going back to my great-grandparents played in some way. Growing up, there were instruments all over the house, and picking one up just seemed natural. I am a product of the Alton Public School Music Department playing in both Band (trombone) and Orchestra (Double Bass) since grade school. Any chance I get to play music makes me happy. During the shutdown of 2020, I locked myself in my room and learned entire Yes albums as a way to pass the time. That time really unlocked my playing and has brought me to where I am today.

Why a Taylor Swift Tribute Band?
When approached for this project, I had to admit that I was a certified Swifty. Creative bass lines and the chance to play some iconic tunes on big stages really appealed to me. I can’t wait to share the experience with all of you.

Anything else you want us to know?
Nah, I am too shy to share much else. 

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