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The Bubba Pickens Band

The Bubba Pickens Band is a seven-piece bluegrass and folk group from California’s beautiful Central Coast. We bring high energy and heartfelt musicianship to every show, blending bluegrass classics, original songs, and reimagined rock hits that keep audiences dancing.

Founded by Mike Deckelmann (mandolin), Marc Stafford (banjo), Steve Geer (bass), and Jason Maas-Baldwin (guitar), the band began as a quartet that learned three songs to open for a nationally touring act at a house concert hosted by Stafford. Deckelmann, Stafford, and Maas-Baldwin were teaching together at a local high school, while Geer and Stafford had previously performed with Santa Cruz songwriter and college bandmate Bryn Loosley.

As their repertoire grew, the group added fellow teacher Brian Handley (dobro), expanding to a five-piece lineup. Though most members were new to their instruments, their passion for playing led to steady gigs and a growing following of friends, former students, and new fans. Before long, former students Victoria Deckelmann (guitar and fiddle) and Kenna Little (fiddle and accordion) began sitting in at shows—and, after a bit of encouragement, became full-fledged Bubbas. Their addition brought richer harmonies, new textures, and an extra dose of joy to the band’s sound.

Whether performing as a quartet or the full seven-piece ensemble, The Bubba Pickens Band delivers a full, toe-tapping sound with harmonies that move both soul and feet.

Today, you’ll find The Bubba Pickens Band performing across the Monterey Peninsula and beyond, in a variety of venues and lineups. With a growing catalog of original music, the band is eager to bring its sound to wider audiences. You can also catch members performing solo (@victoria.lynnlady) or collaborating with other local musicians. We hope to see you at a Bubba Pickens show soon!