_________________________ THE SIMPLE GROOVE STORY _________________________ “You see, we used to be a funk band,” states Rob Staats, founder and lead guitarist of Central Jersey’s hottest cover band, Simple Groove. That’s how the Simple Groove story begins ... In early 2001, Sabrina auditioned for the (now defunct) funk/R&B dance band, White Men Can Funk. Employed, at first, as a “stage ornament with a tambourine” and back-up vocalist. Soon she proved to the other 6 male members (including future husband, guitar player, Rob Staats) that she was capable of singing lead on a song or two. Eventually more songs followed and Sabrina became lead vocalist for the popular funk unit. As time went on and the story goes …. the drummer joined a wedding band, the 2nd guitar player became overwhelmed with work, and the keyboardist was preparing for a new baby. Life happened but the music didn’t stop there. In one pivotal 2-hour phone conversation, Rob and Sabrina began laying the foundation for a new musical journey … and a new life of love. “He was totally tuned into the same things I was thinking,” enthuses Sabrina. "He had all the same musical tastes and references, which gave us a great basis to work from." Rob & Sabrina eventually married in December 2003. Back in 2001, Simple Groove began making a name for themselves on the Central Jersey music circuit. They started performing live versions of such indispensable songs as, "Brass in Pocket," "Heartbreaker," "Hard to Handle," "Crazy Train," "Just A Girl," and "You Oughta Know." The band played anything that would compliment Rob’s ripping, skilled guitar riffs and match Sabrina’s exceptional singing and powerful vocal range. Now, along with a rock solid foundation from Joe's thumpin' bass and Johnny laying down the beats, the band is enjoying their hard-earned (local) success. So remember, if you’re looking for a guaranteed good time and a couple of giveaways be sure to check out Simple Groove.