About Us

 Lead Vocals / Acoustic Guitar 

Paul started the Five Shades of Gray Band in 2016. He grew up in Arlington VA were he picked up the guitar around 10. He moved to Atlanta in 1984 to pursue what is now a Electronics Engineering Degree. He lived, worked, and played in a number of Bands in Atlanta for 12 years during the 80's and 90's until moving to Roanoke VA. After meeting Roanoke musicians, whether  thru places of work or bands that included Over The Influence and Trouser Billy, Paul gathered musicians to form the now Five Shades of Gray Band. 

Paul started theatre in Jr High at Arlington Children's Theatre where he held many roles including two lead roles, one being a musical. He also was in  grade school theatre , choir, and mixed chorus classes. Paul loves sharing his music with others and it shows with every show he performs! Paul has called Roanoke VA home for over 30 years now.

Bass Guitar and Back-up Vocals

Hailing from Long Island, NY, Louis began playing an instrument joining high school friends playing in garage bands-filling the void by playing electric bass guitar.  He fully embraced the bass, realizing it is the “motor” that drives rock music forward.  Quickly learning the instrument, he was invited to join the school jazz and symphonic bands, exposing him to a multitude of musical styles where he learned theory and the technical aspects of music.

Heavily influenced by The Beatles, progressive and British rock bands such as Led Zeppelin and the Who, and classic American R&B and Soul music, Louis always was in groups that played a variety of musical styles.  He participated in several bands while attending college in upstate NY, including Electric Blue, The Susquehanna Crosstown Boogie & Blues Review, and most notably, the Jury.  Playing in bars in Oneonta, NY, his outfits recorded several original songs and won multiple battles of the bands.

Louis returned to Long Island to get a “real job,” get married and start a family--taking a brief 30-year hiatus from being a musician.  Relocating to Roanoke over 20 years ago (the LI accent is barely detectable now) he raised his children and married his permanent wife who shares his love for live music.  They would often be seen out enjoying local bands including Five Shades of Gray.  Becoming empty nesters, he decided to dust off the bass guitar and try to get in with a local band.  Being a fan of the band, he would stand in on occasion with Five Shades when their bass player was unavailable, and in 2024 joined as a permanent member.

Drums

Shannon is a dynamic and driving force behind the kit! Bringing his unique brand of Rock n Roll energy to every performance. With influences ranging from classic icons like John Bonham and Jeff Pocaro to modern masters like Dave Grohl, Mike Portnoy and Carter Beauford. Shannon has forged a distinctive drumming style that blends power , precision, and unbridled passion!

When he's not pounding out the beat, he is always bass fishing to help grow his YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@DudeLetsFish

Rhythm/Lead Guitar and Vocals

Joshua Magill started his music career and stage presence at a young age. Growing up in the 80's and 90's in upstate NY, Maine, and PA. Joshua was involved with musicals, plays, piano concerts and chorus classes. He comes from a family deeply entrenched with all types of music. This lead him to pick up a guitar at 19 years old. 

After playing a few garage bands through his 20's, he founded Bent Jimmy and Synergy. He has performed all over Roanoke since 2014 taking on some of the bigger stages in town like Sidewinders, Elwood Park Amphitheater, and opening for Shinedown. Joshua has recorded at the Jefferson Center and performs renditions of cover songs and original music. His expertise and music theory knowledge make him shine on stage!

Lead Guitar and Vocals

Aaron Blankenship is a beast guitar slayer that can work the frets! Aaron has played in numerous projects including Adrenalin 6 and The faded Travelers Band. He is a multi instrument and talented musician.

Aaron, or Blank like we like to call him,  leaves nothing unfilled! Bringing the stage presence and energy that will make you move!