In September of 1990, Biloxian Robert Collier took the name of his Biloxi based 80's rock group MEET THE PRESS, teamed up with former SPINNERS guitarist/vocalist, Andrew Thomas, changed the sound from rock n' roll to funk and soul and then moved the base of the new funk group to Jackson, Mississippi. Over the years, MEET THE PRESS has shared the stage with The Whispers, Kool and The Gang, Peaboe Bryson, Average White Band, Night Ranger, blues legend Buddy Guy and Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame members, Little Richard and Bo Diddley. MTP has also been the on-stage band for Little Milton, and two more Rock n' Roll Hall of fame members, Percy Sledge and the one and only Jerry Lee Lewis. But now the group has moved from being a Mississippi/Southeast United States music mainstay to being nationally recognized. Modern Bride Magazine, a New York City based national publication has name MEET THE PRESS as one of the one hundred and fifty hottest bands in the country. The list, the first for MB, was compiled by an editorial board/committee that researched and combed the country for the best bands and DJ's in the U.S. After months of meetings, debates and many rounds of elimination, MEET THE PRESS was chosen and is the only Mississippi act to be on the list. The group has been recognized with state declarations by former Louisiana Governor, Mike Foster, former Mississippi Governor Kirk Fordice and current Mississippi Governor, Haley Barbour for the bands dedication to quality performances, excellence in music and as being ambassadors of goodwill for the State of Mississippi.

Joining Collier and Thomas on stage is bassist/vocalist Johnny Hubbard of Jackson and Meridian?s own John Alford on keyboards and vocals. John was once a member of Dorothy "Misty Blue" Moore's band and performed and recorded with Larry Graham of "One in a million" fame. After the 1999 tragic death of original drummer Paul Lee, MTP found former Jackson State "Sonic Boom" drummer/percussionist Lamond Jamison. Jamison, who makes his home in Jackson, has performed with blues artist Willie Clayton and has recorded with Grammy nominated jazz diva Cassandra Wilson.

For booking information on Meet The Press or to book or hire this band for your wedding reception, college event, corporate function or concert, click on the Request Booking Information tab below.

In closing, two quotes sum up the essence of this experience called MEET THE PRES