Ralph Thumas and Joe Ford had been performing original music together since the mid 1970's, when, by chance (that's God remaining anonymous), Joe met David Evans on a church step in the fall of 1990. Joe knew of Dave's talent and asked him if would like to come over to the house and jam with him and a friend (Ralph). Dave did indeed come over and an incredible friendship began that evening. They decided to work up one of Joe's tunes for a local talent show and thus came the "birthing" of "Zen Penguin". A "Flock of Penguins" was to come years later, but this was all part of the plan.
The three men performed for years in the coffee house, public radio and church venues, using their music and warped sense of humor to spread the word of hope, love and fellowship. Apart from each other these guys were talented, but together their songs and harmonies soared. They realized they had a gift and it had to be given away in order to keep it.
Soon "Zen Penguin" added a cello, standup bass and an angelic voice to the ensemble in the form of one Robbin McGraw (now Ms. Goddin). They continued performing in the Louisville and surrounding areas for quite some time and then Dave left the band for personal reasons. Ralph, Joe & Robbin continued performing for a year or so, and then Robbin also left the band. Ralph and Joe still performed from time to time, but there was an emptiness that could just not be filled by other people. It was a miracle disguised as a "death warrant" that not only brought the band together, but changed their lives and the lives of countless others for the good. You can read about that in the mission section of this site. Please continue on. Your next effort could save a life. |
