Meet the Band

Tony Suraci, Lead Singer

Tony Suraci’s performances are purely musical with deep, honest manifestations of tone and expression. He was born and raised in Southern California, where he picked up the guitar at the age of 12 and never looked back. Tony’s road has been filled with diversity, opportunity and a lot of music. He has warmed up for Willie Nelson, co-written tunes with Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, acted on television shows like Melrose Place and even found time to do sound design for an award winning, record breaking, off-Broadway play, The Syringa Tree. Tony Suraci is a diverse musician, playing guitar, piano, drums and harmonica, but his vocal instrument is the most impressive. An accomplished singer, Tony’s voice allows the inspiration of a song to come to life with an impressive catalog of original music bridging genres from Country to Alt-Rock and beyond. Tony’s music is refreshing, dynamic, and his performances quickly draw you in.

Makayla Phillips, Singer/Songwriter

Makayla Phillips is a singer-songwriter from Southern California who began performing at the age of two. At 15, her performance of Demi Lovato's "Warrior" earned Heidi Klum's Golden Buzzer on America's Got Talent Season 13, advancing her to the semifinals. She later competed on American Idol Season 18, reaching the Top 10, and has recently toured with Will Smith. Known for powerful, emotive vocals that deeply connect with audiences, Makayla blends Marilyn Monroe's allure with Whitney Houston's powerhouse vocals.

John Schreffler, Lead Guitar

John Schreffler just won a 2026 Grammy for his work with Robert Randolph, and prior to that, he was best known as the lead guitar player for Shooter Jennings. John is a versatile singer/songwriter, producer, and guitarist (electric, lead, acoustic, pedal steel, and more). From the road with Shooter Jennings, Billy Joe Shaver, Duff McKagen, Gin Wigmore, and Julie Roberts to studio sessions with Shooter Jennings, Duff McKagen, Tanya Tucker, Marilyn Manson, Robert Randolph, and James Woods, John's musicianship transcends genre—bringing authenticity and precision to the music, whether he's on stage or in the music studio.

Matt Lomeo, Harmonica

Matt Lomeo began his career as the youngest artist ever invited to perform at a Woodstock festival, appearing on harmonica and vocals at the age of ten in ’99. He later paid his dues on world-famous Beale Street in Memphis, TN, leading the house band at historic Club Handy. After moving to Los Angeles, Matt released his all-original, full-length debut, When You Call, in 2022. Matt and his band also reached the semifinals in the 2023 International Blues Challenge. His work with Angela Petrilli & The Players has been featured in Rolling Stone. Matt hosts the long-running Tuesday night jam session at Ireland’s 32, featuring many of the finest musicians in Southern California.

Mike Emory, Bass

Mike Emory is a recognizable fixture in the Inland Empire music scene—a versatile bassist, guitarist and vocalist who has played with virtually every band in town. A member of the Mickie Arnett Band and Tony Suraci's The Highwayman Show for 12+ years, he also plays or has played with such bands as Guitar Shorty, Creedenced, Soul To Soul, The Temecula Wilburys, Love You Live and various tribute acts locally and abroad. He performs as a solo acoustic act, covering rock, pop, folk, and indie songs spanning the 1960s to 2000s. He also produces original music under the banner of National TV.

Anthony Suraci, Drummer

Anthony Suraci is a Southern California musician and drummer for The Highwayman Show. His style is energetic, musical, and deeply rooted in live performance. Starting drums at age 5, under his father Tony's mentorship, Anthony joined The Highwayman Show by age 18. His versatile career spans live events across multiple genres. As a drummer and experienced stage performer, Anthony represents the continuation of a generational musical tradition, blending technical skill with the authentic, honest expression that has defined their performances for years.