Doug, "Boo Boo"
Pitts, keyboardist, was born in Richmond, Virginia and raised in Caroline
County, Virginia. Like all the members of the band, Doug's interest in music
began at a very early age. "My older brother was a big fan of Chicago and
Blood, Sweat, and Tears, and I would listen to those albums over and over!"
Doug began playing trumpet at the age of 13, and continued throughout high
school and college.
Doug started performing professionally while in high school. His first venues
were with area soul bands that played in the Fredericksburg and Washington DC
areas. These bands included Portside, White Magic, Execution, and Sixth & Broad.
While a member of "Execution", he shared the stage with several soul
greats of the era, including the legendary Joe Tex. "As a stage band
musician…these formative years were the building blocks that helped me groom my
chops."
Doug's musical influences go as deep as Louis Jordan and Ray Charles, right up
through Chicago, and Brian Setzer.
In the early 1980's, Doug played keyboards with the band "Chaser". This
group included current Centaurs Steve Brown (guitar) and Rich Mason (bass). "Steve,
Rich, and I began a lifelong friendship when we played together in various
bands. When I got the call that long-time Centaur keyboardist, Walter Worman,
was retiring from performing, I jumped at the chance to audition. Ron Moody and
the Centaurs are extremely well established, have a great reputation, and are
amazingly talented musicians!
I am looking forward to the future with this great group and the fantastic music
we can produce!"
Adds, Ron: "Doug (Boo), is a versatile performer, who does many things
well. He is not only fabulous on keyboards, but has great range on trumpet, not
to mention being an excellent vocalist…he's a triple threat guy. We are
fortunate to be able to add Boo to our lineup and we look forward to maximizing
the unique talents he possesses."