The Atkinson Band

Home Band Members Photos Listen to/Purchase CD Radio Airplay Contact Photos 2

Band Members & History

The Atkinson Band is the name we finally arrived at after a history of several different names and some changes to band personnel.  From 2001 to 2004 the band was known as "The Atkinson Marsden Band".  The band members included Brenda, Paul & Owen Atkinson, with drummer Steve Marsden.  1998 to 2001 was "The Atkinson Marsden Project", a trio made up of Brenda & Paul Atkinson and Steve Marsden.  1994 to 2001 Brenda & Paul Atkinson performed as a duo "The Atkinson's" while freelancing with several other bands at the same time.

As of summer 2009, bass player Owen Atkinson had taken time off from The Atkinson Band to manage the family farm and greenhouse business.

Past musicians for The Atkinson Band include drummers Ray Ovington-2007-2010, Josh Snively-2006-07, Durrie Lodge, who played for about 6 months during the later part of 2004, Steve Marsden 1998 to 2004.  Also cousin Dean Atkinson who was with us for all of 2005!  Special thanks to Jim Atkinson for joining us on some of our 2005 shows.  Thanks to all of the above mentioned for your contributions, past and present, to the music of The Atkinson Band. 

Current Band Members:

Paul Atkinson (Lead Guitar/Violin/Mandolin/Vocals) Diversity is Paul's middle name.  He is fluent on every instrument he plays, even the ones he doesn't play.  Paul's guitar work and vocals are inviting to all audiences.  His fiddle and mandolin demonstrations leave the crowd begging for more.  The southern rock and fushion flavoured songwriting talents and musical arrangements Paul has brought to the band are reasons for the band presenting such a high caliber of music.  Paul has been a demanded player by many bands in the past, working with tribute shows for Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, Alan Jackson, George Jones, Reba McIntyre, 50's/60's/70's Rock tributes, Elvis, at all types of venues.  Paul's ability to play any style of music well has afforded him many opportunities with numerous artists, including Northern Bluegrass band tours, and studio jobs and recording projects for all types of music, either playing an instrument or singing backup vocals.  Past bands include Northern Kross, The Atkinson Brothers Band, Earl Sault and The Bluegrass Gospelaires, Jean Cameron & High Ground, The Hits Tribute Tour, and also numerous other bands he has performed in as a fill-in musician. Paul currently works as a music instructor for guitar, violin, mandolin, banjo and bass lessons, manages The Atkinson Band and enjoys working in his own private recording studio.  Paul and close friend Christine Smith enjoy recording, travelling on tours, promoting their gospel bluegrass recordings together.

Murray Williams (Bass/Vocals) Murray has been on the country music scene since the early 80's. Over the years, he has shared the stage with many well known country artists such as Thomas Wade, The Good Brothers, Crystal Gage, Terry Sumsion and The Wilkinsons. The past few years have been busy for this unique country artist. His music has been featured on several radio stations throughout the world. His debut single "Thank a Farmer" was a top 10 hit on the ECMA country music charts in Europe where it stayed in the top 100 for 20 weeks. Back home in Canada, Murray and his music have been featured on many radio stations such as CKNX AM 920, CKRZ 100.3, CHES 101.5 and CBC Radio. Murray is a multi-talented musician whose talents include lead, rhythm and bass guitar along with piano. Murray is a talented songwriter, who self penned all of the tracks on his debut album, "Pure and Simple".  Murray has a new album release called "Going Nowhere Fast".  The single "Daddy's Little Girl" is currently receiving airplay on over 35 radio stations. 

Rodney Williams (Drums) Rod has accomplished quite a bit as a musician for someone of his age.  He currently performs with his Dad's band, The Murray Williams Band and The Atkinson Band, as well as being a student, and working as a studio drummer.  He has played at many festivals, fairs, corporate shows, as well as live radio shows.  Rod has already gained a lot of "playing" experience for a young musician and plans a future in music.  He is able to play well and adjust to any style, in any situation.  You'll enjoy hearing his drum solos at our live shows, and his unique compositions on the album.