Donnie Iris

ABOUT DONNIE IRIS

Rock musician known for his hit single "Ah! Leah!" and for performing with many bands, including Wild Cherry on "Play That Funky Music," the No. 1 hit from 1976.

He started playing the drums and guitar when he was twelve years old. He founded doo-wop group the Fabutons while he was in high school.

He was a member of The Jaggerz for several years and released three albums with the group.

He grew up in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania. His mother Carrie Ierace had been a singer in Curly Venezie's orchestra and taught young Donnie the principles of vocal technique.

He was inspired by many different artists, including Elvis Presley , Buddy Holly, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Marvin Gaye, and Ray Charles.