THE BAND
Uriah Owens
Lead Vocals/Keys Uriah Owens is the Music Director, lead vocalist, pianist, composer, arranger, and songwriter for Upscale Smoke, a dynamic band that has been delivering high-energy, sophisticated live entertainment for the past six years. Known for his smooth vocal delivery, musical versatility, and commanding stage presence, Uriah brings a unique blend of professionalism, creativity, and passion to every performance. Based in Tulsa, Uriah’s musical journey began through his involvement with Dr. Lester Shaw’s Pocket Full of Hope program, where he developed a strong foundation in performance and artistic expression. He further expanded his experience through Kirby Kasting and Modeling Agency, participating in musical theater productions, including performances hosted at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Over the years, Uriah has shared the stage and collaborated with respected artists including Valerie Harding and Tony Mason. His performance experience also extends beyond Oklahoma, including appearances at the legendary Peppermint Club in Hollywood. As the creative force behind Upscale Smoke, Uriah is committed to delivering memorable musical experiences that connect with diverse audiences. Whether performing soulful classics, contemporary favorites, jazz, R&B, Neo Soul, or original compositions, he combines technical excellence with authentic artistry to create an atmosphere that is both engaging and unforgettable.
Thomas Owens
Sax/Vocals Thomas has been playing saxophone professionally for over 35 years and is presently lead saxophonist and Founderof Upscale Smoke the band. Thomas has played with East Central University Jazz, Marching, and Concert bands as well as various combos. While at East Central University, studied privately with renowned Trumpet player Jay Daversa. Liberty World Outreach – Praise and Worship Team as Lead Saxophonist. His musical style has been influenced by Grover Washington Jr. Kirk Whalum, Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame Inductees (Uncle) Roy Milton and (Cousin) Hall Singer. His Degree in Music Education is from Tulsa Community College. His early music education began at Carver Middle School, and Booker T. Washington High School where he was taught by Mr. Elmer Davis Jr. and Mr. James Kirk as a member of theT-Connection Marching Band and the Booker T. Washington Jazz Ensemble.
Leo Okeke
Bass Leo Okeke is an American producer, engineer, arranger, bassist, and keyboardist from Tulsa, Oklahoma, with recording credits that reach across pop, R&B, and hip-hop. His professional discography includes work associated with New Kids On The Block, Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch, The Almighty RSO, Perfect Gentlemen, Finest Hour, and Playya 1000. Discogs credits him as Leo Okeke / Leo E. Okeke and identifies him as a Tulsa-based producer, engineer, arranger, and bassist who worked as a sound engineer at Chaptown Studios. Among his notable credits, Leo contributed to Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch’s platinum-selling debut album Music for the People, where he is credited for engineering, keyboards, bass, programming, and digital sampling. He has also been credited on New Kids On The Block projects, including Step By Step and Merry, Merry Christmas. As bassist for Upscale Smoke, Leo brings decades of professional recording experience, deep groove, technical excellence, and national-level musicianship to every performance.
Toby Surratt
Drums Drummer, Horace A. Surratt III (Toby for those who know), started drumming at the age of 12 after his mother replaced a small sampling keyboard that was on his Christmas wish list that year with a snare drum, sticks, music stand, and lessons at a local music store. His mother knew he mainly wanted the keyboard for the drum pads on it. He praises her to this day for the insight. From there, the musical journey began as a natural progression for a kid who was already a music lover, collector, and avid listener. Toby started drumming professionally at the age of 17 and hasn’t stopped. Being a part of Upscale Smoke has been a perfect fit. Not only musically, but on a personal level as well. For Toby, the best part is getting to do what you love with not just band mates, but great friends.
Don Horner
Guitarist Don Horner is a seasoned performer whose career spans national recording, touring, and high-profile live performances. As a former national recording artist with the group Colorblind and a session guitarist in Los Angeles, Don has built a reputation for exceptional musicianship, versatility, and stage presence.
Throughout his career, he has performed alongside and supported an impressive roster of acclaimed artists, including Angela Winbush, Charlie Wilson, After 7, The Gap Band, Peabo Bryson, and Tevin Campbell. His ability to seamlessly blend genres and elevate every performance has made him a sought-after guitarist both in the studio and on stage.
Don has also appeared at major jazz festivals and shared the stage with renowned jazz artists David Sanborn and Norman Brown, further showcasing his broad musical range and professional excellence. Whether performing before intimate audiences or thousands of fans at large venues and festivals, Don brings a level of artistry, passion, and experience that continues to captivate audiences wherever he performs.