Chris Sterr

Detroit-born, Traverse City-based guitarist, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist.

• Musical Style & Influences: His sound is rooted in Delta and Chicago blues, Motown, and 1960s/70s rock, drawing inspiration from groups like The Beatles, The Moody Blues, Cream, and Pink Floyd. He actively incorporates the improvisational approaches of players like Jeff Beck and John Scofield.

• Bands & Projects: Sterr toured nationally with the Detroit-based band Bump from 2001 to 2010. He has played with the Chicago-based band Stolen Silver since 2011. Currently, he leads the power-fusion trio The Pocket with bassist Stu Ford and Mike Shea, performing high-energy jazz, rock, funk, and blues.

• Billy Strings & Notable Appearances: He joined bluegrass star Billy Strings and a guest lineup (including Molly Tuttle and Sierra Hull) for the "Heartbeat of Eternia" Halloween spectacular at the CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, MD. He was also a featured speaker and performer at TEDxTraverseCity.

• Local Presence: Within the Traverse City area, he performs solo and hosts weekly open mics at venues including Traverse City Whiskey Co., The Workshop Brewing Company, and The Little Fleet.