The Level One Band
The Level One Band got together in Houston, TX in 1998. Soaking in the style of vintage Aretha Franklin, Motown, Disco, and Old School Funk, the band developed a following that has kept them in constant demand at Houston’s hottest venues, as well as private parties and festivals across the country.
Reputation for Excellence
The Level One Band has earned a reputation for excellence, not only for their music and performance, but also for their personal approach to work with their clients. Today, the Level One Band is committed to being a professional entertainment organization which continuously improves the services they deliver.
Professional Approach
Take advantage of our pre-event consultation. Preparation is the key to smooth and successful celebration. Relax knowing that the entertainment and music have been designed to suit your specific needs in advance.
Talent Across the Board
By choosing The Level One Band, you gain access to a team of professional entertainers characterized by artistic maturity and solid vocal and instrumental skills. The original concept of Level One was to build an ensemble composed not only of quality musicians, but also of members who would be able to lead a song vocally as well. This practice has allowed us to develop a show in which each member gets the opportunity to shine. What does this mean to our clients? More energy, more flavors to sample, more harmonies, variety, depth, and — most important — more fun.
Member Biographies
Reginald Wheatley
CEO / DRUMMER
Drummer Reginald Wheatley developed a penchant for music at an early age. He began taking drum lessons in the sixth grade and played percussion throughout high school, where he received scholarship offers from numerous colleges.
After settling on Alcorn State University in Lorman, Mississippi, he studied under Dr. Russel Thomas, a jazz band director and president of the National Jazz Association.
While performing under Dr. Thomas, Reginald Wheatley was privileged to perform with entertainment icons such as Clark Terry, Roy Aires, Slide Hampton and James Williams. Reginald also worked with artists from Malaco Records and Ace Records.
He ultimately developed a strong following that kept him in constant demand with R&B artists throughout the country. Reginald, born Jan. 23, 1963, is a native of Vicksburg, Mississippi, and has been with Level One Band since its inception in 1991.
PadonSings (Padon Suber)
Operations Director
PadonSings is more than just a Neo Soul and R&B artist – he’s a musical storyteller whose sophisticated yet playful style has been captivating audiences across Houston, Texas and beyond. Drawing inspiration from legends like Jamie Foxx, Musiq Soulchild, Tank, and Dwele, Padon has crafted a unique sound that bridges classic soul with contemporary R&B.
His musical journey reads like a success story in the making. From his early days with Futures Promise under Mason Road Management to sharing stages with MTV’s Day26, Padon’s path has been paved with remarkable experiences. His versatility shined as the bass player for Hybrid Soulz and later as a band member for award-winning R&B artist Kristal Cherelle.
As a solo artist, PadonSings has consistently delivered soul-stirring music, from his debut EP ‘Love Vibes’ to his full-length album ‘U, Only You.’ His 2021 single ‘Antidote’ caught fire in the Neo Soul community, leading to a featured interview on Atlanta’s On the Marq Radio Show that ranked in the top 45th globally and 71st on the global Funk-Soul-Jazz chart.
2023 saw the release of his anticipated EP ‘Love Vibes Too,’ followed by the summer album ‘Love Daze’ which featured the hit singles ‘Thursday’ and ‘Kinda Love.’ Keeping the momentum strong into 2024, PadonSings dropped ‘At Night,’ an electronic R&B summer anthem that showcases his versatility as an artist. His achievements extend beyond recording, earning the Broadway Achievement Award for Music Direction and Orchestration alongside Amos Smith for ‘Super Freak: Because Rick James.’ His musical prowess extends to live productions, where he has orchestrated numerous shows alongside One Set Productions, showcasing his talent for bringing stories to life through music.
A multi-instrumentalist proficient in piano, bass, drums, trumpet, and guitar, PadonSings brings depth to every performance. His impact on the Houston music scene has been widely recognized, with features in prominent local media outlets including Bold Journey, Canva Rebel, Voyage Houston, Shoutout HTX, and The Flip Side Music Blog. As a celebrated Artist of the Week on Urban Influencers and a regular performer at Sofar Sounds’ intimate showcases, he continues to build a devoted following.
With his music now reaching listeners in 50 countries, PadonSings proves that authentic soul knows no boundaries. Whether he’s composing scores for theatre productions or crafting intimate R&B tracks, his lover boy charm and smooth demeanor shine through, creating music that speaks directly to the heart.
Ronald “Pee Wee” Smith
Vocalist
Though Ronald “Pee Wee” Smith is a native of Shreveport, Louisiana, Houston, Texas is his home and has been for 30 years.
Ronald begin his music career at an early age of 12 years starting from Linear Middle School, Green Oaks High to the marching stepping Tigers of Grambling State University under the leadership of Conrad Hutchinson and Larry Parnell.
Early on in Ronald’s career, he opened for the likes of Con Funk Shun, Brick, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, Shante Moore, Barkays, Midnight Star, SOS Band, Anita Baker, various blues artists Etc. while still performing ole school R&B soothing sounds throughout the Houston Metropolitan area.
Ronald has one child and is a brother of Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity.
Steve Jones
Guitarist
Raised on Elvis as a kid. Dad taught me a little on guitar to get me started. Originally influenced by my grandfather, a lifetime navy man and a talented jazz guitarist who recorded his own album with RCA records in the fifties and also played on a Platters album. From there various rock and country guitarist moved me forward on the guitar, always looking to improve and expand. I’ve played in many rock and hard rock bands from the late 80’s to now. Worked in the computer industry for a while but now manage a music store. Kat’s Guitars in The Woodlands and playing in a Guns & Roses tribute band and developing other projects.
Dy’v-l “Dyvie” Davis
Marketing
Dy’v-l “Dyvie” Davis is a socialite and people’s person with a background in Journalism and a love for the art of communication. Through her years of experience in media, working both behind the scenes and in front of the camera, she has developed a unique ability to communicate with a broad audience through various forms of communication, including verbal, nonverbal, written, and visual.
Her impeccable communication skills and relatability landed her various opportunities in marketing and promotions. Dyvie began representing various companies as a brand ambassador. From there, she sought to increase her knowledge of digital and social media marketing. She now implements a combination of grassroots strategies and unique, trending marketing tactics to increase brand visibility for companies both large and small.
Talitha Miyoshi
Talitha Miyoshi
Talitha Miyoshi is a versatile and accomplished musician whose artistry transcends genres; blending elements of Gospel, Jazz, Soul and contemporary music. With a profound passion for music and a rich tapestry of influences, Talitha has cultivated a unique sound that resonates with diverse audiences. Talitha serves as auxiliary keyboardist for the “World Acclaimed” Level One Band, where her dynamic keyboard skills and intuition complement the ensembles vibrant sound.
Parrish Early
Parrish Early
Musician • Composer • Producer
Artist Name: The Early Project
Parrish Early is a native of Washington, D.C., whose deep love for music was shaped by the rich sounds that filled his childhood home. Though surrounded by music from an early age, it wasn’t until his senior year of high school that he first sat down at a piano—an experience that would change the course of his life. What began as a simple class project quickly ignited a passion, leading Parrish to perform in talent shows, write original music, and ultimately discover his calling as a musician and producer.
He pursued formal training at Howard University, majoring in Jazz Studies and Audio Recording Technology, where he refined his skills as a performer, composer, and producer. Drawing from his classical jazz foundation, Parrish developed a signature sound that blends timeless musicality with modern influences and innovative sound design.
Now based in Houston, Texas, Parrish has collaborated with a range of recording artists, produced multiple projects, and performed live at diverse venues. In September 2025, he proudly released his debut single under his artist name, The Early Project—a creative venture that captures his unique sound and vision.
Driven by his personal mantra, Live Life N Stereo, Parrish continues to evolve as an artist—pushing boundaries, telling stories through sound, and crafting authentic, soulful music for the world to experience.
Ronald (Ron) Cole
Ronald (Ron) Cole
Keyboardist and Vocalist
For close to four decades, Ron Cole has been a musical powerhouse in Houston as both a performer and an educator. Born in Chicago and raised in Memphis, Ron moved to Houston to attend Texas Southern University (TSU).
At TSU, he was a member of “The Ocean of Soul Marching Band,” “The TSU Concert Choir,” and “The TSU Jazz Ensemble.” He graduated with a BA in Music Education (All Levels, Vocal as well as Instrumental).
Ron went on to serve the Houston Independent School District (HISD) for 31 years as General Music Instructor, Choral Director, and Band Director. He taught at Foster Elementary, Jesse Jones High School, Dowling Middle School, and MacGregor Elementary, where he challenged students to set their goals high and achieve them.
Ron retired from HISD in 2011. He loved being an educator so much that he returned to HISD in 2012, where he currently serves as HISD Band Specialist, Piano Instructor, and Consultant at MacGregor Elementary and Roberts Elementary.
Ron is honored to have touched the lives of so many students. He believes that all students can excel when they have a strong family support system and educators who inspire them to reach their full potential.
On the performing side, Ron is an outstanding musical director, keyboardist, and vocalist. In addition to his own bands, he has performed with such famed celebrities as Al Green, Prince, The Bar-Kays, Brothers Johnson, Chic, and The Calvin Owens Blues Orchestra. Over the past decade, Ron has performed and once served as Musical Director with The Motown BACE Orchestra at the annual Miller Outdoor Theatre Motown Extravaganza. In the summer of 2017, Ron worked as a vocal coach for the Talented 10th Theatrical Program under the direction of playwright and founder Broderick Jones. Recently, he performed at the Alpha Kappa Alpha Boule that was held in Houston. Ron has performed at numerous churches, restaurants, hotels, and clubs in the greater Houston and surrounding areas.
Ron is a member of the prestigious Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Music Fraternity. He is an active member of the American Federation of Musicians.
Ron is married to Jocelyn, and they are blessed with one daughter, Crystal.
De’mon Jupiter
De’mon Jupiter
Drummer • Percussionist • Musician
De’mon Jupiter is a gifted drummer and percussionist whose musical journey began at just four years old, playing in the church and learning an instinctive feel for rhythm, groove, and musical expression. Those formative years set the stage for a lifelong dedication to the craft, shaping a distinctive playing style grounded in both technique and heart.
At sixteen, De’mon completed his first live recording—an early milestone that propelled him into professional musicianship. Since then he’s earned the privilege of working with several national recording artists and has contributed to multiple studio projects across a variety of styles. His versatility, steady pocket, and tasteful creativity make him a go-to choice for live performances, studio sessions, and worship settings alike.
Known for a dynamic stage presence and thoughtful musicality, De’mon approaches every gig with professionalism, humility, and a commitment to serving the song. With decades of experience that began long before most musicians pick up their first instrument, he continues to build a legacy of consistency, passion, and the power of rhythm to connect and inspire.
Smiler Smith
Smiler Smith
Singer
Smiler began her musical journey at a very young age, enrolling as a student at the prestigious Weddings School of Music in Kansas City when she was just ten years old. There, she developed a strong foundation in vocal performance and music theory, which helped shape her natural talent and passion for singing. By the age of fourteen, Smiler’s leadership abilities were already emerging when she formed her very own Baptist children’s choir. The choir consisted of twenty young singers ranging from 5 to 12 years old, and she dedicated herself to training and guiding them, helping each child grow in confidence, discipline, and musical ability.
While continuing to pursue her love for music, Smiler also valued education and enrolled in college, majoring in nursing. Even with her demanding academic schedule, her commitment to music never faded. During this time, she took on the role of music director at a Lutheran church, where she further refined her skills in guiding vocalists and organizing musical programs for worship services and special events. This experience strengthened both her leadership and her versatility as a vocalist.
After graduating from college, Smiler made the bold decision to move to Houston in order to pursue greater opportunities in the music industry. She soon began performing with a local band called City Knights, which became the first major step in her professional music career. Through her performances with the group, she gained recognition for her powerful and soulful vocal style, along with her energetic and entertaining stage presence.
Known for seamlessly blending rich, soulful vocals with captivating movements, Smiler quickly built a reputation as a dynamic and engaging performer. Her musical style is heavily influenced by legendary female groups such as The Supremes, The Emotions, and Destiny’s Child, with a particular admiration for En Vogue. She appreciates the artistry of both leading and supporting roles in music, enjoying the balance of singing background harmonies as well as stepping into the spotlight as a lead vocalist.
Teresa Jones aka TC
Teresa Jones aka TC
Singer
Teresa Jones is a vocalist for Level One Band, bringing a strong musical foundation shaped by early experiences in church and family-based musical environments. Her formative years helped develop her vocal ability, discipline, and appreciation for music as a powerful tool for connection and expression.
Growing up surrounded by harmonies and collaborative performance, Teresa refined her musical ear and stage presence, skills that continue to inform her work as a professional singer. Her background supports a consistent, reliable, and engaging performance style.
As a member of Level One Band, Teresa approaches each engagement with professionalism, preparation, and a commitment to excellence. Her goal is to deliver high-quality performances that resonate with audiences and enhance the overall experience at every event.