Band Bios

Chesham Creek

Chesam Creek Band

Donny Lee Nuckles, Jr. Liz Monseur Becca Isaac

Gary Keel Patty Embrey Josh Butler

Donny Lee Nuckles, Jr. Song writing and music have always been a big part of my life. Stories that have been handed down from the mountains of Southwestern Virginia, to the rolling fields of Culpeper, my songs are of the past and the present. I’ve been known to be very proud of my Southern past and its future. When I was a child I would sit upon my Grandmother Hess’ front porch as she would play her banjo (Little Birdie, Cluck Old Hen etc…). The mountains of Garden Creek, Virginia were so blessed with the sounds of all the music played from the hearts of the people. These folks and their music are the inspiration behind my songwriting. I have met so many good people while on this musical journey. I appreciate the support they have given my songs and this band, Chesham Creek. God bless you, and God bless Virginia and its sweet Southern people.

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Liz Monseur I am thrilled to be part of Chesham Creek, after hearing the stories of the people in Donny’s songs and knowing well his passion for southern history and heritage. For years, I have enjoyed playing and singing folk, traditional and bluegrass tunes with friends. Music was just something I did as a pastime and performances were infrequent. I consider it an honor to share the stage with such great performers in the band as well as to be part of a group that opens for talent like Larry Keel and Natural Bridge. Echoing Donny’s sentiments, I too, appreciate the enthusiasm listeners have shown Chesham Creek.

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Becca Isaac My first ensemble singing experience was at age 5, as a member of the Cherub Choir of my family’s Methodist Church in Charleston , West Virginia . We wore white angel robes with giant red ribbons at the neck. Throughout junior high and high school I sang in the school chorus and church choir, learning how to harmonize and sight sing. At home, “Stained Glass Bluegrass” was heard on the radio every Sunday morning, and record albums of folk music, gospel, rock and roll, disco, and soul were often played. From these very humble musical stirrings (including 7 years of piano lessons), I have developed a deep love and appreciation of music and musicianship. Lewis Family songs from Hallelujah Turnpike are still a favorite of my sister and mine to sing a cappella around campfires and at family gatherings. We will sing with all seriousness, and then crumple up with laughter at how much fun it is.

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Gary Keel I have known Donnie for many years as a good friend, talented musician and songwriter. Donnie has captured the respect, love of family and preservation of the southern heritage in the songs that he has written and now performing.

Being born in Southwest Virginia, I grew up knowing about the greats of the area i.e. The Stanleys, Jim and Jesse, etc. My dad played guitar and banjo for many years for almost any occasion. My brother Larry, a professional performer and songwriter, travels the United States performing with his band.

Raised in the Warrenton, Virginia area, I was hypnotized with all the great sounds out of WKCW Radio Station along with the legendary National Country Music contest at Lake Whippoorwill in August of every year. Also Galax to Watermelon Park, I was always music bound in someway.

I would like to thank Donnie for asking me to be a part of his great work and hope that you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed being part it.

Gary Keel

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Patty Embrey I have known Donny for many years as a co-worker, talented musician, songwriter and most of all a friend. When I heard the material that he had written I was honored to be asked to be part of this project.

I come from a family of musicians; enjoying many different music and festival venues. My dad and brothers played in a band together for many years with many accomplished musicians. It was always so much fun; times that I will cherish forever.

Many sincere thanks to Donny for asking me to be a part of his great work and for the awesome experience.

Patty Embrey

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Josh Butler I grew up trying to play rock n roll like most of my friends in high school. That changed when I met Larry Keel. He introduced me to the bluegrass pickin circles that we all love. From my first jam, I was in awe of the skill these guys had. I began playing banjo inspired by players such as Ben Eldridge from the Seldom Scene and Will Lee from Magraw Gap.

Currently, I've been playing the mandolin and I'm having a blast with it. I feel really lucky to be able to learn from some of the great musicians in Virginia.

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