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Making a Scene Presents an Interview with “The Name Droppers”

The Name Droppers are a powerhouse blues-rock band forged from the DNA of true road warriors and seasoned session pros. With decades of collective experience performing alongside some of the biggest names in rock and blues, this Connecticut-based group delivers a sound steeped in authenticity, groove, and soul.

At the heart of The Name Droppers is Bobby “T” Torello, a drummer whose career reads like a history book of rock and roll. Best known for his years behind the kit with the legendary Johnny Winter, Bobby has also toured with Michael Bolton, Grace Slick, and Black Oak Arkansas. His extraordinary talent has earned him inductions into both the Classic Drummer Hall of Fame and the New England Music Hall of Fame. In addition to his ongoing work as a performer, he serves as an ambassador for WFIII Drums, representing the spirit of craftsmanship and groove wherever he plays.

Rafe Klein brings a songwriter’s soul and a guitarist’s edge to the group. A longtime collaborator with the late blues icon Charlie Karp, Rafe co-wrote songs featured on Karp’s final album Back to You (Red Parlor Records) as well as on Love by Carole Sylvan. His writing also defines the sound of all four Name Droppers albums, giving the band’s music a signature mix of heart, grit, and honesty.

Holding down the low end is Scott Spray, the longest-running bass player for both Johnny and Edgar Winter. His impressive career includes performances and recordings with a who’s who of rock and blues legends. Scott’s masterful playing earned him a Grammy Award for Best Blues Album in 2015 for his work on Johnny Winter’s Step Back. A member of the New England Music Hall of Fame, Scott brings unmatched groove, tone, and experience to the stage.

Rounding out the lineup is Ron Rifkin, a keyboard virtuoso with a résumé that stretches across countless studio sessions and live performances. Known for his expressive playing and versatile vocals, Ron spent years performing alongside Charlie Karp both live and in the studio. His command of the keys and soulful voice make him one of the most sought-after session musicians in Connecticut, and a vital force in The Name Droppers’ dynamic sound.

Together, The Name Droppers channel decades of professional experience into a modern blues-rock sound that’s raw, real, and electrifying. Their music pays homage to the legends they’ve worked with while carving out a sound that’s distinctly their own—tight, soulful, and built on the timeless chemistry of four musicians who live and breathe rock and roll.

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