The Fender Benders, a Fort Worth-based blues and rock jam band, have been gracing stages for the past 20 years. With a solid foundation in blues and rock, the band blends a variety of genres, earning a reputation for delivering electrifying live performances that showcase their immense talent and diverse musical influences. Over the years, numerous esteemed musicians from Fort Worth have joined the Fender Benders, enriching the band’s sound and contributing to its ever-evolving musical identity.
The Fender Benders are led by Sam Perez, an esteemed vocalist and friend to all of Fort Worth. Perez, who originally founded the band Smokehouse in the early ’90s, has been a constant presence in the local music scene. The lineup also includes Jon Mosig on drums, a multi-instrumentalist and well-known producer in the area; renowned local jazz guitarist Birdsnake Brown; and Amanda Brown, Birdsnake’s wife, on bass. This husband-and-wife duo adds a special dynamic to the band’s performances, showcasing their unique chemistry on stage.
The Fender Benders’ defining characteristic is their ability to take classic songs and make them their own. By incorporating elements of multiple genres and jam music, the band creates searing blues and rock renditions that leave audiences mesmerized. Additionally, the Fender Benders are known for their creative original compositions that span various genres, further demonstrating their musical prowess and versatility.
The band’s history is marked by the presence of several noteworthy musicians who have come and gone over the years. One such member was Mike Brown, the legendary gigging musician from the Fort Worth area and father of Birdsnake. Mike Brown joined the Fender Benders in 2009, contributing his exceptional skills as a bass player. Sadly, the local music community mourned the loss of this great musician when he passed away in November 2021.
Another talented musician who was part of the Fender Benders was drummer Mike Torres. An integral part of the band’s rhythm section, Torres brought his unique style and energy to every performance. In 2019, Torres stepped away from the band due to health concerns. His departure was a challenging time for the Fender Benders, but the group rallied together and welcomed Jon Mosig as their new drummer.
Throughout their journey, the Fender Benders have been fortunate to collaborate with skilled guitarists like Rene “Sleepy Dog” Santana and Tone Sommers, who graciously shared their distinct talents and styles with the band. Birdsnake Brown, their current jazz guitarist, had the opportunity to learn from the esteemed jazz guitarist Clint Strong of Merle Haggard’s band, The Strangers. This valuable experience enabled Birdsnake to seamlessly blend elements of jazz, blues, and rock into the band’s performances.
Sam Perez, the band’s charismatic frontman, has deep roots in Fort Worth’s music scene. As a founder of the original band Smokehouse in the early ’90s, Perez played alongside some of the city’s most prominent musicians. Perez found his love of music at a young age, becoming a DJ at the age of 13. Today, he continues to be a driving force behind the Fender Benders, both as a vocalist and as a figurehead for the local music community.
Amanda Brown, Birdsnake’s wife and the band’s bass player, not only adds depth to the Fender Benders’ sound but also brings a unique dynamic to the group. The chemistry between the husband-and-wife duo is palpable during their performances, further enriching the band’s stage presence and captivating audiences. Amanda studied bass under the guidance of her father-in-law, Mike Brown, who also gifted her first bass and amp.
Jon Mosig, the Fender Benders’ current drummer, is a seasoned musician with extensive experience as a multi-instrumentalist and producer. Before joining the Fender Benders, Mosig was a founding member of the 2000s industrial band Bass Drum, and played with popular acts throughout the Fort Worth area. His versatility and expertise have been invaluable to the band as they continue to evolve and create innovative music that captivates fans.
Throughout their 20-year journey, the Fender Benders have cemented their status as a beloved fixture in the Fort Worth music scene. Their dedication to creating a unique sound and delivering unforgettable performances has earned them a loyal following and widespread recognition.
One of the key factors contributing to the Fender Benders’ ongoing success is their ability to adapt and evolve. With each new member that has joined the band, they have been able to expand their musical horizons and incorporate fresh elements into their sound. This willingness to embrace change and growth has enabled the Fender Benders to remain relevant and exciting for their fans.
The band’s live performances are an experience not to be missed. On stage, the Fender Benders showcase their talent for fusing different genres, creating an electrifying atmosphere that leaves audiences spellbound. Their zest for music and dedication to delivering exceptional performances are undeniably evident, ensuring that every show is a memorable event.