The Musicians

Meet the Band

Six seasoned artists from the Ventura & LA music scene, united by a shared love of funk, blues, and jazz.

Brandon Ragan — Sax & Vocals

Sax & Vocals

Brandon Ragan

Mr. Brandon Ragan is an Alabama "Southern" Saxophone player with a background in Music Education and Gospel Jazz music. Downtown Ventura's own, Brandon's love for sax and live music has spanned decades. He picked up music at a young age and was inspired during his educational career, attending Jacksonville University and finishing his degree in Music Theory at Talladega College in Alabama. Before settling in California, duty to his Country called and he served in the USMC and now the Department of Security & Defense/Homeland Security. In Brandon's hometown he is known as a musical mentor, coaching and teaching local youth. He has been a part of the American Cancer Society Annual Gala and has performed alongside private performances for L.L. Cool J. He has carried his southern roots into the blues, funk, and jazz he is known for throughout the Ventura & LA areas. To hear Brandon play is to know true musical inspiration!

Curtis Sanford — Drums

Drums

Curtis Sanford

Curtis Sanford is the rhythmic backbone of The Brandon Ragan Project. A seasoned drummer with years of experience across the Ventura and LA music scenes, Curtis brings power, precision, and groove to every performance. His deep pocket and dynamic range give the band its unmistakable feel.

Jon Francis — Guitar

Guitar

Jon Francis

Jon Francis is a versatile guitarist whose command of blues, funk, and soul runs deep. A fixture in the Ventura and LA live music community for over a decade, Jon's tone and phrasing bring a soulful edge to every stage the band graces.

Tony Maddox — Vocals

Vocals

Tony Maddox

Tony Maddox is a powerhouse vocalist whose voice carries the spirit of classic soul and R&B. With a commanding stage presence and a voice that can move a room, Tony brings heart and energy to every performance alongside the Project.

Rod Wilson — Keyboards

Keyboards

Rod Wilson

Rod Wilson lays down the harmonic foundation of the band with his masterful keyboard work. Drawing from jazz, gospel, and funk traditions, Rod's playing adds depth, texture, and sophistication to the Project's signature sound.

Ric Ilejay — Guitar

Guitar

Ric Ilejay

Ric Ilejay brings a second guitar voice that expands the band's sonic palette. His playing weaves seamlessly between rhythm and lead, adding layers of color and energy that elevate the group's live performances to another level.

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