Evolving from Marbles...

Although Dr. Ike & the Funk King formed in January 2004, the roots of their existence began in a cold basement just outside of Upper Sandusky, OH in the fall of 1993. It was there that Eric 17 and Isaac 15 found themselves as the rhythmic underbelly of what would become one of the area’s most successful high school bands – Marble (1993-1997). With Eric on bass and Isaac on drums, both players still learning their respective instruments, the two of them formed a tight bond both musically and personally that would carry forward many years to come.

Fast forwarding to the latter part of 2003…Isaac was now back in Upper Sandusky after a 3 year stint in Davenport, IA, where he earned his chiropractic degree from Palmer Chiropractic College, and Eric was dabbling in various local musical projects…although nothing seemed to gel. Frustrated with the local music scene, and knowing that Isaac had honed his guitar skills while in Iowa (Dr. Ike put himself through medical school by playing solo acoustic shows 2-4 nights a week) Eric solicited the idea of forming a new band to Isaac that would feature his guitar skills. They agreed it would work, but there was one problem, where to find a drummer now that Isaac had converted to the dark side… (aka the loud, egotistical guitar player world).

Being that the prospects of finding an available drummer in Upper Sandusky were very low, Isaac shamed all drummers the world over by purchasing a drum machine. After toying with it for several days, he came to the conclusion that it might just work and hoped that he would be able to convince Eric (eric hates everything) and at least one bar owner to give them a show.

Officially forming in January 2004 and now beginning their fourth year with more than 100 shows under their belt, Dr. Ike & the Funk King have become one of NW Ohio’s busiest bands. Armed with an energetic set list and blistering rock/blues guitar playing courtesy of Dr. Ike, DIFK consistently entertain crowds throughout the northwest and central Ohio areas. Be sure to check the schedule to see when DIFK will be in your area!