Julie Chappell - Lead Vocalist
Julie’s singing career started tentatively at the age of 14, when she entered a talent contest at Butlins in Skegness. Following the crushing disappointment of not taking first place, she did not pursue her vocal talents any further at this time apart from the odd appearance on karaoke.
Julie has always loved music and a wide selection of musical styles; her influences include Tina Turner, Sheryl Crow, Metallica, Gun's 'n' Roses, Shirley Bassey and Aretha Franklin. From 1998 - 2000 Julie performed in various show productions including The Blues Brothers and a Sinatra Tribute Show, while also performing as a solo artist.
In 2000 Julie move abroad to work for Thomas Cook as a Entertainments Manager and over 6 years covered various countries such as Greece, Turkey, Spain and finally Cyprus. During this time Julie performed on the same bill as The West End cast of Chicago, Simon Webb and Tony Hadley.
Julie decided to hang up her overseas cap in April 2006 when returned to the UK for good. Back in Britain, although not missing the overseas lifestyle Julie missed the performing side of life and soon started the search for a band. As a result Julie was introduced to a motley crew of musicians seeking a female singer and was hugely impressed with their professionalism and versatility. The audition quickly became an extended jam session, and from this meeting early in 2007 the band was formed that became Stone Gecko.
