Entertainment

Valerie is a powerhouse vocalist with numerous impressive achievements. She started her singing career at age three and has captivated listeners ever since. She is a Nashville charting artist with her hit single, 'Rainbow After The Storm.' The song hit # 1 on The Christian Music Weekly Country Chart and was in the top 40 on the Nashville Christian Connection chart. This song was written by Michelle McCammond & Mellad Abeid, and it's just one of the many milestones in Valerie's career.

Valerie has appeared on KSPS Northwest Profiles, airing throughout the 2020 summer & fall. It was played leading up to the documentary on the history of country music by Ken Burns. She's also been featured on KHQ, KREM 2, KXLY, & Fox 28 Good Day Gotta Hear This as a guest artist on The Morning Stampede on K102 Country. Being on a regular rotation on 89.9 KYMS, Valerie's a versatile vocalist who covers many genres.

She headlined the Vegas Style Show Showstoppers Live, performing tributes to vocal giants Celine Dion and Carrie Underwood in Las Vegas. Valerie has opened for significant name acts like Martina McBride, Freddie Fender, Doug Supernaw, and Big House. Valerie is an award-winning singer who competed in The San Francisco Rounds of The X Factor, traveled to Nashville for a taping of The Charlie Daniels Talent Round-Up, and won 1st place in the Spokane Frog FM Country music contest. Throughout the year, you'll find Valerie hard at work on stage, in the studio, making appearances on television networks, and doing live radio interviews & production shows. Valerie sang the National Anthem at the National Governor's Association, where (11) United States Governors were in attendance. She was also honored to open for Martina Mcbride at The Spokane Interstate Fair with the singing of our National Anthem. Gallop is excited and honored that Valerie Jeanne is returning to the stage for her (23rd YEAR). When it comes to this artist, you know instantly that she is grateful to God for being alive and has a song in her heart!"

Back for his eighth year, we welcome guitarist Ben Rose! Originally from Kansas, Ben began playing guitar at age 17. Upon graduating, he attended Spokane Community College and Musicians Institute, where he was awarded the Most Outstanding Stylist award. He teaches music at Learn to Burn Music in Spokane. He plays with various regional groups one of the most accomplished guitar players to ever perform on the Gallop stage for its Opening Ceremony. You do not want to miss his appearance.

Kevin has been entertaining and delighting audiences of all sizes and ages for decades with his versatile voice and the variety of instruments he plays. He has performed in touring groups, variety bands, corporate entertainment acts, theme park shows, and worship teams.

Kevin's experience as a sound designer and audio engineer ensures your favorite songs sound like you remember them with the meticulously programmed sounds from his cutting-edge keyboard rig. Kevin's life-of-the-party reputation and larger-than-life personality always bring energy and excitement. It's been said for as long as he can remember. Oh, "Kevin's here, NOW We can Get The Party Started!!"

Kevin also enjoys his other passion, teaching music. Kevin teaches music in the public schools and has a thriving private practice. Kevin loves sharing his knowledge and experience by enabling his students of all ages to discover how music can enrich their lives.

From Spokane, Washington, Gallop welcomes Gabriel Fino to the stage. He began playing bass at (13) years of age and took Jazz at SFCC for two years during his sophomore and junior years in High School. Upon graduating, Gabriel joined a rock group called Pulling 4 Victory, which has sold out venues like The Big Dipper, The Knitting Factory, and The Rialto in Bozeman, Montana. Currently, Pulling 4 Victory has two songs that have been released, 'Lost All Senses' and 'San Andreas Fault Line.' Gabriel and his band are on almost every Pacific Northwest music platform. Catch Gabriel Fino's performance on Sunday, January 26th, at noon PST. A must not to be missed!

Appearing for her first time on the Gallop stage, Heather Marie is a talented country music singer-songwriter from Spokane, Washington. With a passion for storytelling and a voice that captivates audiences, she brings her unique blend of traditional and modern country music to life. Heather Marie grew up in the picturesque town of Sultan, Washington, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. She developed a love for music from an early age, influenced by the sounds of country legends and her family's musical background.

Heather began singing at local events and writing her songs early on and recently started performing with the Jesse Quandt band. Over the years, Heather has achieved notable recognition, including being a contestant on 'American Idol.' Heather Marie is composed, dignified, and self-assured, which makes a lasting impact on the genre. Watch her upcoming projects and join her incredible musical journey!

Prepare for additional entertainment as the Gallop Opening Ceremony kick-off approaches. Tj Hoopes, from 'Tucker James Music,' is all set to debut on the Gallop stage. A dynamic multi-instrumentalist and entertainer, Tj is known for his vibrant energy and passion for bringing music to life. His belief in music's power to unite is evident in every performance, as he infuses them with uplifting grooves and a contagious love for entertaining. Get ready to be uplifted and connected through the power of music!

Gallop is excited to welcome the incredibly talented drummer Rick Wakefield for his debut performance at the Opening Ceremony. A native of Spokane, Rick is currently a drummer for the 'Gigawatt 80s Band' and the 'Baker Street Band.' He has also played with several other groups, including 'Captain Jack, Slinky Brown, Lion, West Wall, 40 Nights, and the Alive & Kicking Band.'

Rick's unique flair and personality set him apart from other drummers, making his performances memorable and distinct. He brings a sense of groove, subtle nuances, and a personal touch to his drumming, which enhances his music. His passion for drumming is evident and fuels his performances. Don't miss the opportunity to see!

Don's commitment to the Gallop Annual Charity Auction since 2011 is truly inspiring. Last year was his first appearance in front of the cameras versus behind the scenes. Our staff and committees hold him in high esteem for raising the bar for the quality of the Gallop event regarding logistics, quality, and professional attributes. His first public appearance at the event was last year, but his influence, often unseen but deeply felt, has been shaping the event behind the scenes for over a decade. Don's leadership of the exceptional production team at Northern Quest and his role as the production manager for all the national touring acts performing at Northern Quest's concert venues demonstrates his professional skills and dedication to his craft.

Don Carruthers, a Spokane native, was born into a musical family, a heritage that has deeply influenced his musical journey. His father, the legendary jazz pianist Arnie Carruthers, sparked in him a profound love for music. Don's musical prowess began at the age of twelve when he first picked up the saxophone. Over the years, he has played with numerous rock, funk, blues, and show bands, earning a reputation as a highly admired and respected musician in the local music scene. His soulful tone and exceptional improvisational skills have set him apart. You can often catch his band, Eternal Jones, performing in the area. And if you're lucky, you might even see his youngest son, Austin, carrying on the family tradition by singing and playing with the band.

Back for his fourth year to perform at the Kick-Off of the 2025 Gallop Opening, the extraordinary, talented Jesse Quandt, and his band. Jesse started playing guitar and singing at four. Being strongly influenced by classic and outlaw country and classic rock, he thrived in learning from the greats. Adding drums to his repertoire, Jesse became well-versed in jazz and classical but always kept his country roots.

In 2003, shortly after the start of the war in Iraq, he put his musical aspirations on hold and joined the Army. Jesse served just shy of ten years. No matter the post, he only went somewhere with his guitar. Jesse began writing and composing his original musical works on his final overseas tour.

Within weeks of returning home to the States, Jesse was booked and performing professionally. From being billed in small bars, state fairs, and music festivals, Jesse has gone on to open for award-winning artists and national touring acts and has developed a devout following. Based on everyday life experience, Jesse's music follows themes of the blue-collar worker, heartache, life, and love. His energetic style of blending country with rock, blues, and soul always gives something for the listener to enjoy. Whether playing an intimate acoustic show or an astounding, energy-packed live event, Jesse Quandt never fails to deliver authentic entertainment.