Biography

The Coles–a family group consisting of two brothers married to two sisters with their boys, two from each couple, rounding out the family band. Both couples, Orin & Retha and Kevin & Lynette began performing publicly in June 2003. Due to a lengthy illness in 2005, most of their concert dates were cancelled to give time for recuperation. In June 2006, they decided to press on with their love of music and was thrilled when all four boys joined the band. Since that time, they have continued to pick and sing for all who wish to listen. From the traditional songs to the gospel numbers to a few originals, the Coles enjoy sharing their love of Bluegrass music. If you attend one of their performances, their desire is that you feel a little lighter in spirit when you leave...with a song in your heart, a smile on your face and a kick in your step.

Orin Cole - born December 3, 1967       Retha Cole - born February 13, 1968

Orin and Retha were married on October 22, 1988.  They have two boys, Brad and Travis and live at rural Bartlett, KS.  Orin and Retha enjoy hosting gatherings of family and friends as well as enjoying time at home with their boys.

Orin plays guitar for the band.  He is an all-around handyman, from rebuilding engines to remodeling on their 110 year old farmhouse.  His interests include his cows, history and research (of almost any subject) and his family.  He enjoys hunting and fishing with Brad and Travis.  Orin is known for his easy-going manner. 

Retha is among the few ladies that play banjo.  Retha loves a good laugh!  She is her family's biggest fan!  She enjoys the life God has given her with family and friends.  She likes working in her flower beds, bird watching and just being outside.  She's known in her family for her 'bee in her bonnet' ideas and excursions.

Brad Cole - born June 13, 1991- Orin & Retha’s older son

Brad plays fiddle in the family band. He is a typical country boy that enjoys the outdoors such as hunting and fishing. His favorite sport is baseball, which he’s very good at and a favorite hobby is woodworking. He has an enterprising disposition and enjoys selling produce at the local Farmers’ Market with his grandpa. His interest in reading books and conservative talk radio will sometimes spark a political conversation with Aunt Lynette.  He helps to entertain the family with his hilarious expressions in conversation.

 

 

Travis Cole - born July 15, 1994 - Orin & Retha’s younger son

Travis is the dobro player, which the group is happy to have since it adds something a little different than most bands. He is a hands-on type and enjoys helping Orin work cattle or build fence, grain troughs or whatever needs to be done that may involve animals. His enjoyment of hunting and fishing is why he’s found outside as much as possible. He loves science and history and likes to collect unusual rocks and arrow heads. Because of his love of nature, Travis has a deep compassion for life.

 

 

Kevin Cole - born May 21, 1969          Lynette Cole - born September 22, 1970

Kevin and Lynette were married on March 24, 1990.  They have two boys, Madison and Logan and live at rural Edna, KS.  As a family, they enjoy all the fun of backyard activities, baseball, basketball, target-shooting, porch-talking, etc.

Kevin is the bass player.  His hobbies include being outdoors, camping or fishing and hunting with Madison and Logan as well as, eating Lynette's cooking.  He loves the time spent with family and friends, backyard BBQs and country living.  Kevin has a quiet inner strength that his family loves and respects. 

Lynette plays mandolin.  Her interests include music, politics and outdoor activities.  She believes in 'life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness'.  She enjoys greenhousing, scrapbooking  and loves family, friends and a simple country life.

Madison Cole - born November 2, 1993 - Kevin & Lynette’s older son

Madison plays guitar and mandolin for the group and joins in on harmony sometimes. He filled in for his Aunt Retha when she was ill and unable to sing with the group. He is an avid hunter and fisherman. There’s not too many things, not even music, that is more important than the adventures of the outdoors. Madison enjoys most sports however, baseball is a favorite. He is the quieter one of the group but can still entertain with his wild, fictitious original stories.

 

 

Logan Cole - born June 9, 1998 - Kevin & Lynette’s younger son

Logan plays guitar and sings occasionally in the family band. He loves being outdoors, indoors, anywhere! He just loves life! He loves animals, especially his Beagle puppy who is also his hunting buddy. He’ll try to learn or do just about anything and holds his big brother and older cousins in high regard. Logan likes playing games of all types and tries his hardest to hold his own when all the boys are playing football, basketball or baseball.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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