Sterling Heights

"FUN!” is the main adjective used to describe this upbeat Pop Rock Alternative band out of Clarksville, TN! It all got started in 2007 with RJ Taylor (Lead Vox & Rhythm Guitar) and his best friend Robby Labean looking to start something that they could enjoy playing and that the people fans would enjoy seeing and hearing. Influences by bands such as Hit The Lights, All Time Low, and The Rocket Summer “Odds of Success” was started and their first song “If Frogs Had Wings…” was created. It was only the 2 of them for about 6 months and then RJ met Joe Oakley (Lead Guitar) at Clarksville First Church of the Nazarene. After only a few jam sessions they knew it was a perfect fit. They hosted their own house shows in “The Barn” behind Robby’s house and worked with what they had the best they could. Their musical sound was just starting to develop and at the time they had no clue what they were getting into.

Then Monte Lafferty (Drums & Vox) came into the picture. He added a new twist on their music and came to almost every practice with new ideas. He gave “Odds of Success” a much needed energy and excitement boost! One of these ideas was a change of name. After much thought and deliberation they came to settle with the name, “Hello My Name Is…” As HMNI they played many shows like the MCHS Prom and the First Baptist Church of Clarksville’s BOTB. They were still young in their sound and just could not put a finger on what they were missing. As time went by, Robby decided due to some musical differences it would be best for him and the band if he were to step out. “We miss Robby and what he brought to the band and we still <3 him MUCHO!” - RJ Taylor (lead Vox/Guitar)

HMNI then decided that it would not be the same without one of the founding fathers so another name change and the choice of a replacement was in order. When Monte, Joe, and RJ put their heads together there was only one name that came to their mind when they thought of someone that would fit right in; Logan Klem (Bass Guitar, Keyboard & Vox). His energetic bass playing and beautiful piano style was what the rest of the band was desperately looking for. After Joe’s vacation to Alabama that summer and him meeting a girl named Sterling, “Sterling Heights” was born! Since then they have played many shows all across Tennessee in cities including Clarksville, Fort Campbell, Nashville, and Greenbrier. They released their first EP in late November of 2008 entitled “The First Step”. It is truly their first step towards something they believe will be GREAT! They are really excited about the responses that they are receiving.

They, as a band, realize that they would not be able to do what they do without the grace of their Lord, Jesus Christ. “We may not be a “Christian band”, but we are defiantly a band of Christians who want to lead by an example that music is not about the "Rockstar Life-style", but about having a connection with your fans and most of all having FUN!” Sterling Heights is an up and coming must see! Their awesome musical talents and natural ability to interact with the crowd makes this band stand out from the rest. The next time you get a chance to a show, DON’T DELAY! They enjoy meeting every person in their audience and would be honored by your presence! They leave you with one simple message: “We Love All You People!”