About Michael Benson Band

The Michael Benson Band was the first-ever Northwest live band to create DJ-styled non-stop dance sets. Every night we chase perfection. Discover how the MBB creates an epic experience, second to none.

We bring years of experience forged through diverse musical ventures and collaborations from all over the world with some of the industry’s finest. Our members have recorded captivating music, shared the stage with iconic artists, and worked with vocalists and musicians who are truly in a league of their own.

In Seattle these world-class musicians came together to form the Michael Benson Band. Over more than 2400 events, we’ve performed at countless venues for a wide array of occasions, bringing our extensive experience to every performance. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, we’ve done it all.

“You are the consummate professional! Your energy, heart, and talent helped us realize a joyful celebration!”

An All-Live Performance

Everything we play is 100% live, giving us total flexibility with the flow. We aren’t tied to any pre-recorded tracks that constrain us if songs need to be shortened, extended, or looped.

Real-Time Crowd-Reading Setlists in Freeform

While most bands stick to preset song lists, we thrive on spontaneity. We craft our setlists in the moment, responding to your crowd’s vibe in real-time. Our freeform approach means we adjust our sets song by song to match the energy of your event, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience every time.

Seamless Music Flow

Thanks to our iPad-synced technology across the band, Michael Benson Band is able to flash the next songs across the stage to its band members, delivering a DJ-like experience with zero pauses. This continuous flow keeps the party going without interruption, ensuring a high-energy and immersive experience throughout your event.

A Diverse and Extensive Repertoire

No other band can match our range. We bring a diverse and extensive repertoire that caters to all tastes, age groups, and vibes. From classic jazz and Sinatra-era elegance to contemporary pop and rap, our musical diversity is unmatched.

Consistent and Reliable Band Members

With us, what you see is what you get. Unlike other bands that may have changing members, our team remains stable and consistent. You can trust that the skilled musicians performing at your event are the same ones you met during the planning stages.

Exceptional Customer Service

At Michael Benson Band, we go above and beyond to make your wedding or special event the best night of your life. We understand that great service extends beyond the stage, and we work tirelessly to accommodate your needs and exceed your expectations. Notably, other bands charge extra for an MC but we include it at no charge – so that’s a savings for you. Once you’ve booked with us we are completely at your service.

Unmatched Work Ethic

At Michael Benson Band, we prioritize your event’s needs over a fixed schedule. Our flexible timeline means we adjust to the flow of the night, taking fewer breaks and keeping the music going as long as the party requires.

An All-Live Performance

Everything we play is 100% live, giving us total flexibility with the flow. We aren’t tied to any pre-recorded tracks that constrain us if songs need to be shortened, extended, or looped.

Real-Time Crowd-Reading Setlists in Freeform

While most bands stick to preset song lists, we thrive on spontaneity. We craft our setlists in the moment, responding to your crowd’s vibe in real-time. Our freeform approach means we adjust our sets song by song to match the energy of your event, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience every time.

Seamless Music Flow

Thanks to our iPad-synced technology across the band, Michael Benson Band is able to flash the next songs across the stage to its band members, delivering a DJ-like experience with zero pauses. This continuous flow keeps the party going without interruption, ensuring a high-energy and immersive experience throughout your event.

A Diverse and Extensive Repertoire

No other band can match our range. We bring a diverse and extensive repertoire that caters to all tastes, age groups, and vibes. From classic jazz and Sinatra-era elegance to contemporary pop and rap, our musical diversity is unmatched.

Consistent and Reliable Band Members

With us, what you see is what you get. Unlike other bands that may have changing members, our team remains stable and consistent. You can trust that the skilled musicians performing at your event are the same ones you met during the planning stages.

Exceptional Customer Service

At Michael Benson Band, we go above and beyond to make your wedding or special event the best night of your life. We understand that great service extends beyond the stage, and we work tirelessly to accommodate your needs and exceed your expectations. Notably, other bands charge extra for an MC but we include it at no charge - so that’s a savings for you. Once you’ve booked with us we are completely at your service.

Unmatched Work Ethic

At Michael Benson Band, we prioritize your event’s needs over a fixed schedule. Our flexible timeline means we adjust to the flow of the night, taking fewer breaks and keeping the music going as long as the party requires.

Michael Benson

As a lead-singing keyboardist, band leader Michael Benson stands out in a league of his own. His voice effortlessly transitions from the sophistication of Sinatra-era jazz standards to the high-energy riffs of AC/DC, the soulful melodies of Bruno Mars, and the vibrant beats of hip-hop’s Macklemore. When he’s performing, his mind is always on the next song and the next song after, constantly connecting tempos, keys, and styles to keep the musical flow dynamic and engaging.

Michael has done it all—teaching, recording his own albums, and directing—before dedicating himself fully to the Michael Benson Band. He loves singing for people and turning their celebrations into the best nights of their lives. Michael thrives on the music, the crowd’s energy, and the special chemistry he shares with his band.

Darelle Holden

Co-leader Darelle Holden is a silky smooth songstress with deep musicality. Pop Diva, R&B Powerhouse, and Jazz Siren all apply to her unique and diverse vocal styling. Darelle toured Internationally for 17 years with superstar Sir. Tom Jones, ala, “20 Feet from Stardom” and along with her constant touring schedule she’s made countless appearances on Dancing With the Stars, The Tonight Show, The View, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Late Night with Conan O’Brian and the list goes on.

Darelle’s remarkable talent includes performing the duet “I Wanna Get Back With You” alongside Sir Tom Jones. Her distinctive vocals are also featured on Tom Jones’ classic “Leave Your Hat On,” which appears on “The Full Monty” soundtrack. Throughout her career, Darelle has shared the stage with incredible artists such as Earth, Wind & Fire, Bobby Caldwell, Ellis Hall, Elton John, jazz guitarist Norman Brown, Gerald Albright, Hamish Stewart of Average White Band, Greg Adams of Tower Of Power, and most recently, Stevie Wonder.

Brian Monroney

Brian is an eclectic guitarist with broad experience as a performer and studio musician; he easily shifts gears between jazz, rock, pop, funk, soul, country, blues and other genres.

He has performed with several well-known artists, including a nearly 18-year stint as the musical director and guitarist for legendary singer Tom Jones. As a studio musician, Brian has recorded with Natalie Cole, Gloria Estefan, Michael Bolton, and numerous Latin music stars.

In the jazz & instrumental music realm he has contributed to recordings by Nelson Rangell, Wayman Tisdale, and jazz saxophonist Paul Taylor. Since locating in Seattle he has become highly sought-after by top Northwest jazz artists including Greta Mattassa, Bill Anschell, Susan Pascal and many others.

Jay Donald

Drummer Joshua “Jay” Donald is known for his versatility. His talent as an onstage performer and his unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, rock, pop, jazz, gospel, classic soul/blues, and salsa makes him an invaluable member of the band. Joshua was born in Los Angeles, where he discovered his love for music. His passion led him to Phoenix, where in 2005, he was voted one of the top drummers in Arizona, earning him the honor of performing for the Queen of England at SSE Wembley Arena in London.

He’s played alongside legendary performers MC Hammer, saxophonist Marion Meadows, bassist Mel Brown, Guitarist Stanley Jordan, & gospel artists Crystal Lewis, Kirk Franklin, BB & CC Winans, Yolanda Adams & many more.

His work in live recordings for TV networks like TBN, Daystar, and AZ-TV showcases his broad musical versatility and beyond his skills as a drummer, Jay is also a talented singer, arranger, producer, and writer.

Alexey Nikolaev

Alexey Nikolaev began playing saxophone at 15. He studied composition and arrangements at Gnesin’s Academy of Music in Moscow, and also studied with saxophonist Dave Liebman.

Alexey’s extensive jazz festival appearances include the Montreux Jazz Festival, Black Sea Jazz Festival, Toronto Jazz FestivalIAJE / New York, Centrum Jazz Festival, Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, Earshot Jazz Festival, San Francisco Balboa Jazz Festival, and many more throughout the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

Notably, Alexey has performed with Tower Of Power and has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, including vocalists Bobby Caldwell, The New York Voices, Lary Braggs, Lenny Williams, Greta Matassa, and Dee Daniels. He has also performed with saxophonists Dave Liebman, Tom Scott, Maceo Parker, and trumpeters Wynton Marsalis, John Faddis, Randy Brecker, Greg Adams and Jumaane Smith. Alexey is also a member of The Doctor Funk Band.

Osama Afifi

Osama Afifi, a professional bassist since 1983, has performed and recorded with a wide range of artists. He toured with Yanni across the U.S. and Canada, worked with Vanessa Paradis in Europe and Canada, and appeared on VH1’s “Storytellers” with The Doors. His credits include collaborations with Grammy-nominated jazz vocalists Kurt Elling and Nnenna Freelon, The 5th Dimension, Gary Herbig, Debbie Boone, Kei Akagi, John Densmore, Tony Guerrero, Darren Motamedy and Broadway star Kristian Chenoweth.
Osama was also a key member of the B Sharp Jazz Quartet, known for their acclaimed album “Searching for the One,” featuring the Billboard-recognized track “Nami.” He is a current member of Seattle’s Jazz Overhaul.

Since relocating to the Pacific Northwest, he has worked with the Tacoma Symphony, Judy Collins, and several other notable musicians. His education includes studies at the Dick Grove School of Music and lessons with Jeff Berlin and Gary Willis.