By James (JJ Rocks) Johnston

Rocksta's bass man

Devon Peters was probably my first music student on St. Croix that wanted to take lessons on two instruments at the same time. Well actually, he would alternate week to week from bass to guitar. Usually I frown upon this because I want a student to at least get a good grasp on one instrument before going to another. But Devon already played both instruments and just wanted to advance his skills.

After getting to a level where he could discover more things on his own, we didn’t see much of each other. But I guess we made a connection because now we are in the same new band called “Rocksta”. And not only am I happy about that, but I have never been so pleased with any bassist here on the island. I’ve played with a few technical bass players on St. Croix, but most had little concern for the band. They were more into their own playing and most times it was just a paid jam. But hey, they played great and it was very cool to be in a band with them.

This is not so with Devon Peters. He shows a great deal of respect for the songs that he plays and the people that he plays with. His main goal is the overall sound of the band and not just his individual musical needs. I consider this article a true success story of a man who was once my student, and now is my musical brother. But I have to admit, the teacher side of me still shows up at rehearsals and I can’t seem to help it. Thanks Devon, for putting up with me forgetting that our rehearsals are not lessons. Sometimes it’s just hard for me to realize that you have become as good as you are. See you at band practice. – JJ Rocks

February, 2010