The Checkmates were synonymous with The Las Vegas Lounge. However, they also spent a great deal of time traveling across the North America.

I had the privilege of learning stagecraft and performance, with Sonny Charles and “Sweet Louie” in so many places, I can’t count. Toured the country with Sonny and worked with The Checkmates, here in Las Vegas.

They were an immeasurable influence on my singing career.