In the early Fall of 1961, an Upper Arlington High School sophomore & four juniors began "jamming" in the basement of a Brandon Road home. Just weeks later, singer-sax player Jeff Shaw '64, drummer Jimmy Davis '63, guitarists Gary Hughes '63 and Jim Grubb '63 and keyboardist Gary Bonnette began playing at teen dances and proms as The Ravens. As just one of four high school-aged rock bands in Central Ohio in that pre-Beatles," do-wop" era, the group accompanied local disc jockeys at record "hops" and played at most all area high school and church youth group dances.

The group began opening for touring rock 'n roll acts at Veteran's Memorial Auditorium and the Fairgrounds Coliseum and entertaining at fraternity parties and dances at colleges and night clubs throughout the Midwest and East. The Ravens have continued to perform at dances, wedding receptions, corporate outings and community events through the years. In 2003, The Ravens were inducted into the Columbus Nightclub Band Hall of Fame and Columbus City Council recognized the group for its musical contributions to the community. In 2004, The Ravens were honored by the Upper Arlington Alumni Association as "Distinguished Alumni of the Year."

Shaw continues to lead the group as it begins its sixth decade of musical entertainment featuring favorite hits from the late 50s, 60s and 70s plus smooth jazz and standards. Original members Jim Davis and Gary Hughes were still with the group until 2005.

During the current anniversary celebration, The Ravens was featured in the 2012 Upper Arlington Independence Day Parade along with performances at other dances and summer events. In Spring of 1962, the band made a special appearance at the high school junior-senior prom and on July 3, 2012, The Ravens entertained those seniors from the UAHS Class of 1962 at their 50- year class reunion.

Now YOU can see The Ravens performing at the UA Alumni Association Golden Bear [Pre-Hibernation] Rock Fest on Saturday, November 10!