Meet the Band
Becky Moon
(Teena Marie)
Lady T is portrayed by Rebecca Maheata Tahauri aka Becky Moon Diaz. Becky entertained and danced professionally starting at age 3 in a Polynesian Review in Chicago with her father, singer and musician from Tahiti, French Polynesia.
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] She started singing after starting having 3 daughters. Becky is one of the most in demand sings over 1300 hours annually and has performed well over 20,000 hours professionally and growing Becky Moon is one of the most sought after Vocalist in the land of the mega, super talents in Los Angeles. Becky’s four plus octave, vocal range and unearthly, incredible vocal endurance keeps her averaging 250-350 performances a year. Her other specialty talents are notably her ability to MC and connect and involve the audience. Becky was gifted with a highly versatile voice allowing her to sing authentically across multiple genres and styles, she’s been mimicking sounds and singers her whole life until she found her own sound. She currently fronts the Award-Winning, All Female Cover Band Pulp Vixen. She is the lead singer belting the power rock vocals of David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar in the top, all female Van Halen tribute FEMME HALEN. Her versatile voice can mimc from Whitney Houston to Metallica, from Teena Marie to Ariana Grande. Becky sings in multiple languages including Spanish, Hawaiian, Tahitian and French and Tagalog. Becky's band BNF (Becky N’ Friends) is an all star band made up of musicians who've supported or are currently touring with well known, famous artists. Becky's other bands are Foxy Moon & The Infinite 70s Experience and her "Someone Like Adele Tribute." She has fronted and supported hundreds of bands and artists on the west coast for the past 30 years, she's been the wedding singer for over 1,000 couples, has performed hundreds of Life Celebrations and charitable events, sang National Anthem for dozens or sporting and civic events and uses her gifts to help her community. Her vision is to elevate anyone she comes in contact with on her musical journey, especially her fellow musicians. Becky teaches music therapy in lockdown mental health facilities, and coaches newer vocalist on vocal performance, vocal endurance, and emceeing. Becky is the President, Founder and former Head Coach of a competitive swim team in Chino Hills, CA, she is a mother of 5, and a grandmother of 6. She's fit, energetic, kind and lives a life of gratitude and service daily. [/expander_maker]
Joel Simpson
(Rick James)
Meet the talented Joel Pernell and he is extremely excited to embrace the role of Rick James and hopes to do justice to the legendary performer’s incomparable style. We are 💯 that Joel will do Mr. James proud! With Joel’s amazing vocal range and high energy… we are warning you all, it’s contagious and you will be on your feet! 💃🏻 🕺🏻
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] When Joel was a very young boy, his parents were both in the Army and stationed in Panama. His grandmother knew there wasn’t much in the way of entertainment for a youngster who spoke no Spanish so she sent him cassette tapes of Michael Jackson and MC Hammer! They have been his lifelong inspiration and ever since then, he knew he wanted to perform! Joel has been a backup singer 🎤 for Childish Gambino, has performed alongside Wayne Brady at an event, and opened up for Ernie Halter, Rebecca Black, Tahj Mowry, and Aaron Carter 🕊️ #restinpeace Joel aka DJ Believe, is a local and lives with his family in Whittier. He performs as a singer and DJ for high end events; where he is well known for his open musical format and personable performance style. Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon is so honored to have Joel Pernell perform with us and for you all! [/expander_maker]
David Brown
(MD/bass/vox)
Meet the talented David Brown as our bassist.
David plays bass guitar, and has the voice of an angel he also excels at recording, composition, and instruction. David’s longterm projects include The Tom Nolan Band [2001-present] and Boomerang Band {2000-2019}.
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] David has shared the stage with many well known and respected musicians and artists such as Gene Chandler, Billy Paul, Peaches & Herb, Evelyn 'Champagne' King, Dorothy Moore, Heatwave, The Manhattans, Blue Magic, Malo, Curtis Traylor, Jimmie Lykes, Jamie Green, Jay Gore, Shane August, Paul Rose, Doña Oxford, 'King' Chris Rocha, Becky Moon, Joe Travers, & Stevie Wonder.Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon is so honored to have David Brown perform with us and for you. [/expander_maker]
Megan Taylor
(drums/vox)
Meet our supremely talented drummer Megan Taylor! From all accounts , Megan was born with drumsticks in her hands; she has been drumming from the tender age of 3 and did her first drum competition when she was only 5. She decided drumming wasn’t enough and started playing guitar at 9 and bass at 11.
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] She was in the house band for School of Rock Hollywood and has played in venues such as The Roxy, The Whiskey, The Knitting Factory, several festivals, NAMM, Universal Studios and The Sunset Street Music Festival starting at age 8. Megan stated that she recently had the privilege to play some of the biggest shows in her life with the all female funk band “Klymaxx” alongside artists Cameo, Morris Day, The Dazz Band, The P-Funk All Stars, The S.O.S Band and more. Performing 4-6 nights a week is her happy place. She been dedicates her “free time” to writing, producing and recording her own music on the side, which can be found on all music platforms under Megan Taylor Music. Performing is Megan’s true love and passion, she believes in leaving it all on the stage, putting everything she can into the performance, doing the homework, showing up for everyone including herself and making positive personal connections are a priority in all she does!! Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon is so honored to have Megan perform with us and for you all!!! [/expander_maker]
Dr. Phillip Charles
(guitar/vox)
Meet the talented Phillip (Doc) Charles who will be gracing the stage shredding away on his guitar and hitting some amazing high notes! 🎶 Phil, plays a multitude of instruments starting with the trumpet at age 8! His love for music blossomed and he continued to grow, learning to play piano, violin, clarinet, trombone, French horn, baritone, drums, and guitar.
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] Doc has played in a countless number of bands starting in the 6th grade and continuing through present day. Most notably was his time with the Busboys prior to their record deal in the late 1970’s. Phil’s talents have been showcased on TV shows such as LA Law, The Arsenio Hall Show, and he did a track for the musical TV drama Cop Rock. Phil’s love for the Lord has led him to share his God given talents as a guitarist for Intercity Christian Center in Los Angeles, he has played 2 concerts with gospel artist James Cleveland, 23 years guitarist for Covenant Blessing Fellowship Church in Wilmington CA, numerous gigs around SoCal with Jeff The Great, Diversity, and the Inland Empire’s Michael Henry. The artists that have influenced Doc the most are: Lee Morgan, Freddie Hubbard, Miles Davis, Jimi Hendrix, Carlos Santa, Joe Pass, Freddie Stone, Prince, Paul Jackson Jr., George Benson, Larry Graham, Stevie Wonder, and John McLaughlin just to name a few!! We are sure there are many musicians that name Phil Charles as their inspiration too! Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon is so honored to have Doc perform with us and for you all! [/expander_maker]
Christian Burrola
(keys)
Meet the talented keyboardist Christian Burrola. Christian was born into a musical family, his mom Doris sings, his brother David is a singer/songwriter and his dad John plays both saxophone and flute for Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon At the age of 6 years old,
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] he was inspired by the legendary Stevie Wonder and started piano lessons, at age 10 he picked up the guitar and at age 11 he started playing bass. Christian has mastered all his instruments and has a very natural ability to learn a song by just listening to the music, watch him onstage and you can see the musical wheels in his head turning! Christian has played bass for Steve Salas of Tierra, Rick Stevens of Tower of Power, Joshua Aaron, Ellis Hall, and Richard Bean; also he’s played keyboards for Jojo of the Mary Jane Girls! His talents don’t end with playing instruments either, he’s done musical direction and composition and has been pivotal in the development of our Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon project. In his spare time, you can find Christian in front of his computer creating magical anime. His talent and creativity simply know no bounds! Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon is so honored to have Christian perform with us and for you all! [/expander_maker]
Frank Salazar
(perc)
Meet the incredibly gifted Frank Salazar who was born and raised in Southern California; he excels at percussion and saxophone, and has been playing both professionally for 45 years! Frank has shared stages over his career with Fred Jenkins, Jim Macon (of the legendary Gap Band), and Ty Griffin (trumpet and keyboardist with Teena Marie).
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] In the late 70’s, Frank was the lead sax player for Arabesque, formally known as Night Life Band, and in the early to mid 80’s he was lead sax player with Sangria Band. In the late 80’s Frank was co-leader of the band Brandy with vocalist Jeannette Jurado, who later went on to become a member of Expose. In the late 70’s he also shared the concert stage with El Chicano, Tower of Power, Tierra and many other artists at car show events. Frank has continuously played in the Music Ministry at Calvary Chapel Golden Springs for over 20 years, in both their worship bands and large touring stages with the Somebody Loves You Crusades with Pastor Raul Reis. During his tours with Pastor Reis, Frank shared the stage with Christian artists Jeremy Camp, Terry Clark, and Latin Christian artist Judy, with Latin Christian artist Robito of Sony Records, as well as many other Christian artists. Having a unique gift of a good musical ear, Frank continues to receive calls to sit in with many other groups as a lead sax player or as a percussionist. His true passion is playing Gospel, Jazz and R&B music! Frank loves bringing joy to everyone through his music! [/expander_maker]
John Burrola
(sax)
Meet the TMT band members! Today we introduce you to another one of our background vocalists Curtis Thompson!
Curtis is singing tenor for TMT and has been performing since 1974, he also started playing bass that same year.
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] He has been inspired by many amazing artists such as, Earth, Wind and Fire, Steely Dan, Parliament-Funkadelic, Joanie Mitchell, Bootsy Collin’s, and The Manhattan Transfer to name a few. Curtis has shared the stage with quite a few notable performers including Patti Austin, Tracie Spencer, Israel Houghton, and Bebe Winans. The highlight of his career was when he toured with Michael Jackson on his Dangerous World Tour! 🤯 🤩 Nowadays you can find Curtis on stage with his lovely wife Lady Vaneta in their musical duo Vancurt! You can locate them online at Vancurt.com. TMT is so honored to have Curtis Thompson perform with us and for you all!! [/expander_maker]
Christie Malone
(vox)
Meet the vocalist Christie “Mirraje” Malone and she sure was born to sing! 🎤 She is the daughter of blues musician George “Bluestone” Malone and Bernadine Sims. Mirraje is a gifted singer with a natural stage presence; and has been singing since she was three and writing songs and poetry since the age of nine.
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] As Mirraje embarks on her solo career, she realizes how blessed she's been, having had such a great opportunity to share the stage with some of music's most iconic legends such as; Stevie Wonder, Cheryl Cooley of Klymaxx, Zapp, Morris Day and The Time, Cameo, Dj Quik, Salt and Pepper, and many more including the Legendary Krazie Bone of "Bone Thugs In Harmony" who agreed to be Co-Executive Producer of her Debut Album "#TheMirrajeProject" after he heard some of the incredible music that she was creating. Mirraje truly has an electric love for ALL music and can find a song in everything that surrounds her. Because of that; she writes, sings & performs all types of music from R&B, Pop, Country, Hip Hop, Jazz, Funk and more. Mirraje's musical influences consist of many great talents that came before her but she must admit that "Anita Baker" is her favorite. Mirraje is young with an old soul and when asked to define her music she simply responded with "Life is unpredictable and unique it can never be defined by genres or categories nor should our music. I just do what feels good." Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon is so honored to have Mirraje perform with us and for all of you!! [/expander_maker]
Vaneta Thompson
(vox)
Meet the fabulous Vaneta Thompson! She is a talented singer and songwriter and is the soprano background vocalist for our own Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon
Vaneta started performing professionally at the tender age of 17 and has been working consistently for the last 44 years.
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] Her musical influences include Motown and Stax recording artists, including Aretha Franklin, The Beatles, Chaka Khan & Rufus, Bread, The Jacksons, The Eagles, and many others. Vaneta has performed for many notable artists such as George Duke, Ndugu Chanselor, O’Brien, Ray Charles, Tracie Spencer, Chante Moore, Soul to Soul, Sam Moore (of Sam & Dave), Billy Preston, and Taj Mahal. Mz. Vaneta gives all the glory of her success to the Good Lord above and has been a lifelong lover and follower of JESUS CHRIST. Wife of 38 years to the wise and talented Curtis Thompson, and proud mama of two gorgeous, talented daughters, Jenae and Briyahn. Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon is so honored to have Vaneta Thompson perform with us and for you all!! [/expander_maker]
Curtis Thompson
(vox)
Meet our background vocalists Curtis Thompson!
Curtis is singing tenor for Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon and has been performing since 1974, he also started playing bass that same year.
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] He has been inspired by many amazing artists such as, Earth, Wind and Fire, Steely Dan, Parliament-Funkadelic, Joanie Mitchell, Bootsy Collin’s, and The Manhattan Transfer to name a few. Curtis has shared the stage with quite a few notable performers including Patti Austin, Tracie Spencer, Israel Houghton, and Bebe Winans. The highlight of his career was when he toured with Michael Jackson on his Dangerous World Tour! 🤯 🤩 Nowadays you can find Curtis on stage with his lovely wife Lady Vaneta in their musical duo Vancurt! You can locate them online at Vancurt.com. Rick & Teena’s Funk Phenomenon is so honored to have Curtis Thompson perform with us and for you all!! [/expander_maker]
Yo Jonesy Jones
(Dynamic Musician, Songwriter, and Performer
)
YO JONESY JONES is a multi-talented songwriter and musician celebrated for her ability to seamlessly blend Pop, Rock, Blues, R&B, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Reggae into dynamic performances. Known for her captivating stage presence and innovative artistry, she delivers experiences that resonate deeply with audiences.
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] Born into a family of musicians, Jonesy began her journey as the lead vocalist of her family’s gospel band at just five years old. Her natural talent blossomed as she mastered the trombone, percussion, guitar, and tap dancing. Today, she is based in San Diego, California, where she collaborates with elite musicians and performs at prestigious venues, including Seaworld, The Rady Shell, Disneyland, The Belly Up, and top-tier casinos, wineries, and festivals across the state. Jonesy’s performances are unforgettable, often featuring her signature hoverboard and trombone routine—a true testament to her creativity and showmanship. Her mission to spread the “Live in Peace” (L.I.P.) message through music is the driving force behind her career. This global movement began with her acclaimed band, Crowned Jewelz, which was voted Best Band at the 2018 Port City Secondliners Honor Awards. Her latest release, Jonesy 3:16 Crowned Jewelz Album, exemplifies her artistry and ability to connect through music. In her words, “Crowned are my thoughts, and Jewelz are the words I spit,” reflecting the deep authenticity she brings to every performance. With features such as the cover of MOBILE BAY MAGAZINE and an international tour under her belt, Jonesy is a powerhouse performer who captivates audiences with a diverse sound and innovative stage presence. From intimate venues to grand stages, she ensures every show is a celebration of life, peace, and music. [/expander_maker]
Ty Griffin
(trumpet)
George Pandis
(trumpet)
JOEL PERNELL
When Joel was a very young boy, his parents were both in the Army and stationed in Panama. His grandmother knew there wasn’t much in the way of entertainment for a youngster who spoke no Spanish so she sent him cassette tapes of Michael Jackson and MC Hammer! They have been his lifelong inspiration and ever since then, he knew he wanted to perform! Joel has been a backup singer for Childish Gambino, has performed alongside Wayne Brady at an event, and opened up for Ernie Halter, Rebecca Black, Tahj Mowry, and Aaron Carter #restinpeace
Joel aka DJ Believe, is a local and lives with his family in Whittier. He performs as a singer and DJ for high end events; where he is well known for his open musical format and personable performance style. TMT is so honored to have Joel Pernell perform with us and for you all!
MEGAN TAYLOR
She was in the house band for School of Rock Hollywood and has played in venues such as The Roxy, The Whiskey, The Knitting Factory, several festivals, NAMM, Universal Studios and The Sunset Street Music Festival starting at age 8.
Megan stated that she recently had the privilege to play some of the biggest shows in her life with the all female funk band “Klymaxx” alongside artists Cameo, Morris Day, The Dazz Band, The P-Funk All Stars, The S.O.S Band and more. Performing 4-6 nights a week is her happy place. She been dedicates her “free time” to writing, producing and recording her own music on the side, which can be found on all music platforms under Megan Taylor Music.
Performing is Megan’s true love and passion, she believes in leaving it all on the stage, putting everything she can into the performance, doing the homework, showing up for everyone including herself and making positive personal connections are a priority in all she does!!
TMT is so honored to have Megan perform with us and for you all!!!
DAVID BROWN
David has shared the stage with many well known and respected musicians and artists such as Gene Chandler, Billy Paul, Peaches & Herb, Evelyn ‘Champagne’ King, Dorothy Moore, Heatwave, The Manhattans, Blue Magic, Malo, Curtis Traylor, Jimmie Lykes, Jamie Green, Jay Gore, Shane August, Paul Rose, Doña Oxford, ‘King’ Chris Rocha, Becky Moon, Joe Travers, & Stevie Wonder. TMT is so honored to have David Brown perform with us and for you.
MIRRAJE MALONE
As Mirraje embarks on her solo career, she realizes how blessed she’s been, having had such a great opportunity to share the stage with some of music’s most iconic legends such as; Stevie Wonder, Cheryl Cooley of Klymaxx, Zapp, Morris Day and The Time, Cameo, Dj Quik, Salt and Pepper, and many more including the Legendary Krazie Bone of “Bone Thugs In Harmony” who agreed to be Co-Executive Producer of her Debut Album “#TheMirrajeProject” after he heard some of the incredible music that she was creating.
Mirraje truly has an electric love for ALL music and can find a song in everything that surrounds her. Because of that; she writes, sings & performs all types of music from R&B, Pop, Country, Hip Hop, Jazz, Funk and more. Mirraje’s musical influences consist of many great talents that came before her but she must admit that “Anita Baker” is her favorite. Mirraje is young with an old soul and when asked to define her music she simply responded with “Life is unpredictable and unique it can never be defined by genres or categories nor should our music. I just do what feels good.” TMT is so honored to have Mirraje perform with us and for all of you!!
Christian Burrola
and at age 11 he started playing bass. Christian has mastered all his instruments and has a very natural ability to learn a song by just listening to the music, watch him onstage and you can see the musical wheels in his head turning!
Christian has played bass for Steve Salas of Tierra, Rick Stevens of Tower of Power, Joshua Aaron, Ellis Hall, and Richard Bean; also he’s played keyboards for Jojo of the Mary Jane Girls! His talents don’t end with playing instruments either, he’s done musical direction and composition and has been pivotal in the development of our TMT project.
In his spare time, you can find Christian in front of his computer creating magical anime. His talent and creativity simply know no bounds!
TMT is so honored to have Christian perform with us and for you all!
Phillip (Doc) Charles
Doc has played in a countless number of bands starting in the 6th grade and continuing through present day. Most notably was his time with the Busboys prior to their record deal in the late 1970’s.
Phil’s talents have been showcased on TV shows such as LA Law, The Arsenio Hall Show, and he did a track for the musical TV drama Cop Rock.
Phil’s love for the Lord has led him to share his God given talents as a guitarist for Intercity Christian Center in Los Angeles, he has played 2 concerts with gospel artist James Cleveland, 23 years guitarist for Covenant Blessing Fellowship Church in Wilmington CA, numerous gigs around SoCal with Jeff The Great, Diversity, and the Inland Empire’s Michael Henry.
The artists that have influenced Doc the most are: Lee Morgan, Freddie Hubbard, Miles Davis, Jimi Hendrix, Carlos Santa, Joe Pass, Freddie Stone, Prince, Paul Jackson Jr., George Benson, Larry Graham, Stevie Wonder, and John McLaughlin just to name a few!! We are sure there are many musicians that name Phil Charles as their inspiration too!
TMT is so honored to have Doc perform with us and for you all!
VANETA THOMPSON
Vaneta started performing professionally at the tender age of 17 and has been working consistently for the last 44 years.
Her musical influences include Motown and Stax recording artists, including Aretha Franklin, The Beatles, Chaka Khan & Rufus, Bread, The Jacksons, The Eagles, and many others. Vaneta has performed for many notable artists such as George Duke, Ndugu Chanselor, O’Brien, Ray Charles, Tracie Spencer, Chante Moore, Soul to Soul, Sam Moore (of Sam & Dave), Billy Preston, and Taj Mahal.
Mz. Vaneta gives all the glory of her success to the Good Lord above and has been a lifelong lover and follower of JESUS CHRIST. Wife of 38 years to the wise and talented Curtis Thompson, and proud mama of two gorgeous, talented daughters, Jenae and Briyahn. TMT is so honored to have Vaneta Thompson perform with us and for you all!!
CURTIS THOMPSON
He has been inspired by many amazing artists such as, Earth, Wind and Fire, Steely Dan, Parliament-Funkadelic, Joanie Mitchell, Bootsy Collin’s, and The Manhattan Transfer to name a few. Curtis has shared the stage with quite a few notable performers including Patti Austin, Tracie Spencer, Israel Houghton, and Bebe Winans. The highlight of his career was when he toured with Michael Jackson on his Dangerous World Tour!
Nowadays you can find Curtis on stage with his lovely wife Lady Vaneta in their musical duo Vancurt! You can locate them online at Vancurt.com. TMT is so honored to have Curtis Thompson perform with us and for you all!!
FRANK SALAZAR
Frank has shared stages over his career with Fred Jenkins, Jim Macon (of the legendary Gap Band), and Ty Griffin (trumpet and keyboardist with Teena Marie). In the late 70’s, Frank was the lead sax player for Arabesque, formally known as Night Life Band, and in the early to mid 80’s he was lead sax player with Sangria Band. In the late 80’s Frank was co-leader of the band Brandy with vocalist Jeannette Jurado, who later went on to become a member of Expose. In the late 70’s he also shared the concert stage with El Chicano, Tower of Power, Tierra and many other artists at car show events. Frank has continuously played in the Music Ministry at Calvary Chapel Golden Springs for over 20 years, in both their worship bands and large touring stages with the Somebody Loves You Crusades with Pastor Raul Reis. During his tours with Pastor Reis, Frank shared the stage with Christian artists Jeremy Camp, Terry Clark, and Latin Christian artist Judy, with Latin Christian artist Robito of Sony Records, as well as many other Christian artists. Having a unique gift of a good musical ear, Frank continues to receive calls to sit in with many other groups as a lead sax player or as a percussionist. His true passion is playing Gospel, Jazz and R&B music! Frank loves bringing joy to everyone through his music! TMT is so honored to have Frank perform with us and for you all!
Meet our Production Team
Vince Diaz
(sound)
Christine Broadhurst
(management)
Natalie Ros
(sound)
A California native born and raised, Natalie, brings 6 years of audio expertise to the RJTM team. Starting out as a stagehand and audio engineer for the casinos, Natalie eventually worked her way up the chain and honed in her skills in this industry.
[expander_maker id="1" more="Read more" less="Read less"] After spending 3 years in the corporate casino world, she decided to take a leap of faith and enter the touring world. Natalie has been fortunate enough to have worked for Feld Entertainment, touring internationally with Disney on Ice, spreading love and Disney magic to families across the world before transitioning over to Cirque du Soleil as their first and only female Backline Technician. With her years in the casino and touring combines, Natalie offers her skills as a Monitor Engineer (when applicable), general stage manager wrangling the band and taking care of their needs as well as any pre-production advancements and any audio related feedback when needed. You can find her, rocking side stage, standing by for anything to happen. Let’s keep the music of Rick James and Teena Marie alive! [/expander_maker]
Leo Frank
(A/V)
Meet the TMT Background Dancers!!
Simone Buchanan
She teaches an open level heels class weekly at Destined to Dance in Anaheim and has taught at many other prominent dance studios in the OC, she has performed at numerous showcases, concerts and events. We are so grateful to have her grace our stage with her talents!
TMT is so honored to have Simone perform with us and for you all!!
Chrissy Ras
We introduce you to one of our background dancers! Dancer and choreographer, Chrissy Ras has been dancing professionally since beginning her career at Disneyland as a teenager, and most recently worked for the
