The journey of Ruff Stock began in 1993 when Michael Giannecchini transitioned from bull riding and team roping at the local jackpot rides and roping’s to discovering a new passion for singing through a karaoke experience. In 1994, he got the courage to get up on stage and belt out his favorite 90's country tunes from honky tonk heroes like Mark Chesnutt and George Strait. In 1996, he met Dave Anthony at DeMarco’s 23 Club in Brisbane, California, sparking a musical partnership. They wrote songs at Dave's San Francisco apartment from 1996 to 1998 and eventually jamming in Michael’s garage with a select few individuals that David knew would create a rocking country sound. The original line consisted of Jinx Jones a legendary Bay Area guitarist, Brian Hudgins a distinguished Bay Area bass player, John Vaughn playing steel guitar with roots from West Virginia, Darren on drums, David Anthony on rhythm guitar and Michael Giannecchini on lead vocals.
Their hard work of playing local San Francisco and the surrounding area gigs paid off in 2002 when they recorded their first album. Ruff Stock performed regularly until 2012, making their mark at renowned venues like the Saddle Rack in Fremont, The Rodeo Club in San Jose, and little country joints scattered about like The Old Western Saloon in Point Reyes, or the Plough and Stars in San Francisco to the smaller side stages at the Concord Pavilion. They also had the opportunity to perform at the legendary Gilley’s in Las Vegas. They had the honor of opening for country stars like Terri Clark, Sara Evans, Billy Currington, and Brad Paisley.
As life often does, relationships, family, and careers eventually took priority, leading to the band’s hiatus.
Fast forward to 2023, and Russ Beck was determined to start a country band. He connected with a friend, who introduced him to Mike. Initially considered for his guitar skills, Mike revealed his true talent as a singer, marking the rebirth of the band. Thus, the new era of Ruff Stock began. Russ then recruited Bill Sheridan on lead guitar, discovered Patrick Martinez, a well-known musician in Livermore who plays pedal steel and rhythm
guitar and sings, and finally completed the lineup with Michael Lewis on bass.
With a fresh lineup and renewed passion, Ruff Stock is back and ready to make waves in the country music scene once again.
