Bands on the Beach - Whitesands Panhandle Band

Pensacola Beach's FREE outdoor summer concert series features performers for every musical taste and is held each Tuesday night from 7-9 p.m.

Organized by the Santa Rosa Island Authority, this popular event is located at the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach, overlooking the Gulf.

Spectators are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets.

Reminder: Pets and glass are prohibited.

For updates, call SRIA at (850) 932-2257 or tune to Cat Country 98.7!

From the Florida Panhandle comes one of the hottest bands in genres of bluegrass, country and rockabilly, the Whitesands Panhandle Band. Whitesands Band was founded by Brad Hanssen and Mike Feldman in 1979 and has had many great musicians and singers over the years, but what stands out is its hard driving instrumentals and great singing — the cornerstones of the band.

Whitesands Band has been influenced by many great artists, such as Marty Stewart, Doyle Lawson, Marty Raybon, and Charlie Daniels — to name a few. Among their notable accomplishments, Whitesands Band won first place in the Florida statewide bluegrass contest, which launched the band into national recognition. Whitesands Band was also chosen to showcase at IBMA [International Bluegrass Music Association] in Nashville in 2001, exposing the band to national talent buyers and promoters. Whitesands Band released its first album on LP Vinyl in 1979. Soon after, it released two cassette albums, followed by five CD albums. 

Whitesands Band has toured extensively across America and built a sizeable, loyal fan base. Recently, the band reorganized and added new members, giving it a fresh, new sound.

Tim Baldwin takes the helm as lead singer and rhythm guitarist. Tim’s musical experience is anchored in strong southern gospel singing, with an impeccable ear for melody and harmony. Tim also pens original songs, some of which Whitesands Band will premiere on its upcoming album. Brad Hanssen adds vocals and fiddle, but notably, Brad is one of the hottest banjo players around. The rest of the band includes Mike Feldman on harmonica, Ricky Barlow on drums, Chris Sheppard on lead guitar, and Don Lopez on bass.

Whitesands Band is working on a new album, which is planned to be released by Fall 2021, which will feature Tim Baldwin originals and classic covers with the band’s unique style. The band’s strong vocals, powerful instrumentals, and energetic performance keep audiences excited and wanting more. While true to its roots, Whitesands Band mixes the traditional with the new and gives fans across America an exciting blend of bluegrass, country and rockabilly — their way.