bios
Todd Vehring, Drums & Band Leader. 2023
Todd founded Southbound Crows during the summer of 2023. The band's presence in the Nashville market grew much faster than everyone’s expectations. His background in leadership positions in science and engineering firms provided the experience to generate great success in a short period of time. Todd grew up on Long Island and has always had a spirit for adventure. He competed in sailing and in a variety of sports, several outdoor intensive activities, as well as playing in bands from a young age.
Todd studied geology at Tennessee Tech and went to grad school at Eastern Kentucky University. His career as a geologist centered on the assessment and remediation of hydrocarbon-impacted aquifers. After hanging up his rock hammer, he leveraged his love of dogs and is now a popular dog behaviorist. He is a “go-to” resource for shelters and rescues for the most difficult cases.
Todd’s enjoyment of classic rock music, playing drums and a love of the camaraderie within the band brings enjoyment to his daily life. Southbound Crows is co-managed by Todd and his wife, Kathy, whose contribution to the band is immeasurable.
Shea Putnam, Lead Vocals. 2025.
Shea Putnam is a Nashville-based vocalist with musical roots that trace back to Memphis, Tupelo, and the Shoals of Alabama—areas where American music history is not just something to read about; it’s a background melody of daily life. During her time in the Shoals, she performed in theater and musical productions while in college, honed her voice across genres rooted in classical and jazz, and worked in voice for a local radio station owned by Sam Phillips, the producer who discovered Elvis Presley and helped shape early rock and roll.
Classically trained, Shea toured Europe, performing featured solos under Grammy Award-winning conductor Robert Page. Despite her classical foundation, her heart has always belonged to rock and roll. Influenced by artists such as Stevie Nicks, Annie Lennox, Pat Benatar, and Heart, she fully embraced that world as a member of a Heart tribute band, where she handled the Nancy Wilson vocals. For more than 20 years, Nashville has been her home, where she continues to perform and record with songwriters and artists across the rock and country spectrum.
Music history is also a significant part of her family. Shea’s life has been shaped by her connections to important chapters of American music, including her father, Norbert Putnam, a bassist and producer who played with Elvis Presley and helped bring pop music recording to Nashville, and her uncle, Jon Putnam, a touring bassist for Delbert McClinton and a studio musician and engineer for Dan Fogelberg. Their legacy provides her with perspective and inspiration, but it does not define her own path.
Offstage, Shea is energized by travel, her deep love of animals (who she believes are excellent judges of character), and enough coffee to keep things lively between shows.
Jayden Masen, keyboard, Lead vocals. music/vocals instructor. 2025.
Jayden, a dynamic 23-year-old multi-instrumentalist hailing from Houston, TX, made the exciting leap to Nashville in 2020. Unmistakably talented, he captivates audiences with his expressive keyboard skills and powerful vocals. With the keen ear of a seasoned producer and the electrifying presence of a true performer, Jayden brings unparalleled texture, movement, and harmony to every performance, elevating the entire band to new heights. When he's not commanding the stage, you might catch him lacing up his running shoes, inspiring students as a teacher, or honing his craft in the studio, where he expertly produces artists and helps songs achieve their fullest potential. With Jayden on board, every note and performance promises to resonate deeply and leave a lasting impression.
Manny Sanchez. Lead guitar. background vocals. 2025
Manny, a California native, has journeyed across the country and beyond, embodying an adventurous spirit that fuels his travels around the globe. Among all his explorations, Costa Rica holds a special place in his heart. Drawing inspiration from guitar legends like Joe Satriani and Eric Johnson, Manny Sanchez masterfully fuses technical precision with emotional resonance, focusing on crafting impeccable tone, captivating melodies, and dynamic contrasts. His instrumental sound stands out as both soulful and fierce, showcasing his expressive guitar prowess.
The music of Southbound Crows captivates listeners with its soaring melodies and gritty, driving intensity, always prioritizing genuine feel over mere excess. Sanchez's guitar-driven approach celebrates authenticity, atmosphere, and storytelling, steering clear of fleeting trends.
Together, Manny Sanchez and Southbound Crows create a powerful synergy, expertly balancing control and raw energy to deliver music that is not only emotive but also unapologetically guitar-centric.
An intriguing aspect of Manny is his deep passion for Earth's history, a field he has dedicated years to studying. This unique blend of artistry and knowledge undoubtedly enriches his music, making it a resonant experience for all who listen.
Tommy Slayton, Bass Guitar. Lead Vocals. 2025.
Tommy is an American musician and journeyman tradesman. He is the founder of Boogietec.com and is a proud chihuahua dad to Leon.
Tommy grew up in Detroit during the 1970s and was influenced by Motown, rock, and disco music. His first concert was seeing Kiss in 1977, which sparked his passion for glam rock. He has a collection of glitter bass guitars and has been a lifelong musician, performing in clubs since the age of 15.
Two of his greatest accomplishments include playing bass on a Dolly Parton album and working on the space shuttle project—two remarkable achievements that showcase his unique talents. Leon, his chihuahua, accompanies him everywhere. Tommy is often seen cruising around Murfreesboro, TN, in his 1965 Mustang.
Jackie Saturday, Acoustic Guitar. Special Events Lead Vocals. 2024.
Jackie has been captivating audiences with his professional singing for over a decade, but his love for music runs much deeper. His remarkable vocal range, which stretches from baritone to high soprano, allows him to deliver a truly unique interpretation of cover songs. He skillfully channels the iconic sounds of legendary bands like The Police, Journey, Boston, and Queen, making each performance memorable. What sets Jackie apart is the genuine emotional connection he brings to his music—it resonates in every note he sings. Coupled with his vibrant and slightly sarcastic personality, both on stage and off, Jackie offers an experience that is not only unique but profoundly authentic. When you see him perform, you don't just hear the music; you feel it.