Popular Siesta Key musician dies
The Siesta Key community was shocked and saddened over the sudden passing of popular musician Zack Yoder on July 5. Yoder was well known as the frontman for the Zack Yoder Group and was part of the popular The Whole Band that plays at Blasé Café on Fridays.
Yoder was born and raised in Sarasota and at an early age started a love affair with music. He began his music career playing with the Bethel Gospel Players.
Eventually he formed the Zack Yoder Group which he was lead vocalist, guitarist, and bassist. The band’s sound was a mix of rock, blues, and folk and was consistently playing on and around Siesta Key. He developed a loyal following of fans that would follow him to different venues.
Yoder was also known for his generosity and mentorship to other young musicians by offering guidance, support, and encouragement. His influence and contributions to the many other musicians he worked with will have a lasting impact on the local music scene.
This kindness and compassion came natural to Yoder. He was also a certified chaplain and would visit and counsel patients and friends with addictions.
The impact Yoder’s life and music had on other musicians and fans were shared on his Facebook page. Here are a few of the tributes:
Kevin Thompson: Our brother Zack has been a light and a musical inspiration for all of us who has had the privilege of sharing the stage with him. I am so grateful for “The Whole Band” and will never forget the musical boundaries we dared to cross. He was truly one of a kind! And my heart will always have a little Zack in it.
RJ Howson: Sometimes you get news you just don’t want to believe. Brother Zack Yoder was a true brother and good soul … gone way too soon … lots of good memories with him.
His childlike gifted spirit was infectious and refreshing and he will be missed by many. We had many guitar and music talks and I thought of him fondly like a little brother.
Kimberly Shea Love: I am absolutely heartbroken! RIP Zack Yoder! You blew my mind every single time you played! You will be missed so, so much!
Yoder was 31 when he passed away.
