The Zillionaires began in Minneapolis as a 3 piece band with Wendy Smith on guitar, vocals, and accordion, Vicky Wiegand on bass, and Dave Drentlaw on back up vocals and drums. Vicky and Wendy had played together in the group Chara Vari, and added Dave (Kwasa, The Misanthropes) to the mix when they found they needed a drummer. Later, the 3, along with Brian Smith and Mary Farrow, formed The Thistles and with their unique sound found work in Minneapolis bars opening for artists like The Silos and Phil Alvin of the Blasters. Dave, Wendy, and Vicky went on as The Zillionaires playing as a trio and with various guest players until 2002 whenPeter Nelson (The Revelators) joined the band.
The four friends performed together in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin until Vicky's death in 2012 when Joel Cooper (Kennedy's Kitchen) stepped in to play bass. When Joel moved out of the area, Steve Delwiche began playing with the group.
The Zillionaires play original music composed by Wendy and covers from a wide swath of musical styles. A variety band, yes indeed.
Wendy Smith Vocals, Guitar, Accordion
Peter Nelson Guitar, Vocals
Dave Drentlaw Drums, Vocals
Steve Delwiche Bass
Thezillionaires@gmail.com
