There is a certain art to playing keyboards in a guitar band. It’s a skill that Blake Sakamoto mastered after informal lessons from Dio keyboardist Claude Schnell early in his career. Blake took that skill and became one of the best keyboardists in rock - most notably helping to give the Dan Reed Network their signature sound.

In this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, congenial host Rikki Lee Travolta takes a deep dive into all things Dan Reed Network with Blake Sakamoto – the keyboardist for the band behind the hit albums Dand Reed Network, Slam, and Ritual in the 1980’s and 90’s.

Blake and DRN were well known in the U.S., and huge in Europe. They opened for legendary acts like Bon Jovi and The Rolling Stones, bringing their unique blend of rock, funk, and metal to fans all over the world.

Blake now makes his home in the Greater Portland, Oregon area and is still involved in the music industry thrilling audiences throughout the Pacific Northwest with The Nu Wavers – the sexiest 80’s cover band on the scene, bringing back the onstage showmanship that made the 80’s so dynamic and fun. He also has an interesting connection to the world of musical theatre.

In addition to his music career with the Nu Wavers, Blake balances a successful Country Financial insurance agency office – licensed in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Arizona, Wisconsin, and Illinois. So, if you’re in the market for Auto, Home, Farm, Life, Business, or Retirement policies contact Blake Sakamoto at (503) 266-7000 (voice & text) or BlakeSakamoto2@countryfinancial.com

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