Bill Ruchie

Instrument:
Bass and Vocals

Musical Background:
Music major in college where I studied the bass and played in the jazz band. Started playing professionally at age 16 with my first band, American Grease, (sax player Ken was a part of that band with me!) which won the St. Paul Winter Carnival talent contest in 1975. Was a member of The Cleavettes, a popular 50's and 60's show band, for 6 years. During that time, I had the opportunity to share the stage with the likes of The Coasters, Tommy James, and Johnny Rivers performing as their warm up act and back up bands. Since I began my full time technical career at Guidant, I've played in a few part time bands over the years. Leon and I were both a part of Party Town and The Options and I was also a member of Nightlife before connecting with Ken and Leon once again in Full Circle.

What I do for real work:
Advanced Technician in Reliability Assurance for Boston Scientific CRM Division. I troubleshoot and analyze the micro-electronics in pacemakers.

Family:
Wife Laurie, 25+ years and counting. Oldest son Tony (College Student), Oldest daughter Angela (Senior in High School) Oldest twin by two minutes Matthew and his twin sister Maria (both Juniors in High School).

Favorite food:
Italian, is there any other?

Favorite band:
The Beatles, Elvis Presley, The Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan, B.B. King, Eric Clapton, Sammy Hagar, Otis Redding, and Frank Sinatra. Too many others to list. Oh yeah...and Full Circle!

Favorite musical experience:
I've had a few. Elvis Presley concert in 1975, managed to see the King before he died, he wasn't in top form, but I was thrilled to see him nonetheless. All of The Doobie Brothers concerts I've been to, great vocals and great musicianship each time. Playing in front of 1500 people in a packed ballroom in Ft. Dodge IA with The Cleavettes, for about 2 years we drew that many people each time we played there. Playing with my friends Mike and Jack in their original music band, 'The Hidden Persuaders'. I played with them for one summer, the last gig being at The Fine Line in front of about 200 people or so. Playing The Fine Line with those guys had to be my favorite stage moment.

Favorite quote:
"A woman is like a beer. They look good, they smell good, and you'd step over your own mother just to get one!" - Homer Simpson after chugging a beer!