About Us
About the Surfin’ Raccoons
The Original Beach Rock Party Band
The origins of the Surfin’ Raccoons date back to 1985, when a group of musicians gathered for a party at the legendary Cinder Block, a well-known local hangout at the time. During that gathering, a decorative beach towel featuring a raccoon riding a surfboard caught everyone’s attention — and the name Surfin’ Raccoons was born.
From the beginning, the band drew inspiration from an eclectic mix of artists and styles, including Chuck Berry, The Doors, the Grateful Dead, The Rolling Stones, The Ramones, Tom Petty, Johnny Cash, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and many more. Those influences shaped a sound rooted in classic rock, blues, Americana, and high-energy crowd favorites.
Who We Are
The Surfin’ Raccoons are a Florida-based beach rock and party band built around one simple goal: play great songs, bring great energy, and give people a night they won’t forget.With decades of combined experience and over five years together as a core group, we’ve learned that the best shows aren’t just about playing music — they’re about connection. We read the room, match the vibe, and deliver the songs people know, love, and want to hear.Our sound pulls from classic rock, Americana, blues, and high-energy crowd favorites — everything from The Doors and the Rolling Stones to Tom Petty, Johnny Cash, and modern sing-along anthems. With hundreds of songs in rotation, no two shows are ever the same.The Surfin’ Raccoons have opened for international recording artists such as Molly Hatchet, performed at PGA-level events including the Valspar Golf Tournament, and headlined major regional celebrations like King of the Beach / the Bluffs Wine Walk. These experiences reflect our ability to connect with large crowds, high-profile events, and diverse audiences — while still bringing the same energy and authenticity to every stage.
We perform as:
A full 6-piece band for festivals, large venues, and headline events
A compact Trio for bars, pubs, breweries, and smaller stages
No matter the format, the mission stays the same:
keep the dance floor moving, the crowd engaged, and the good times rolling.
We’re proud of our roots, grateful for our fans, and honored by the venues and communities that welcome us back again and again.Inspired by the roots. Powered by the party.
Rooted in the Music. Built for a Good Time.
While the Surfin’ Raccoons have always respected their roots in the blues, the band has evolved into what audiences love most — a high-energy beach rock and party band that plays the songs people know, sing along to, and dance to.
The core of the band — Sammy (Vocals), Mike (Lead Guitar & Vocals), and Jeff (Bass) — has remained together through the years, building chemistry, consistency, and a deep connection on stage. Over time, the band has grown to include Pug (Drums), Hippy (Harmonica), and Larry Bell (Rhythm Guitar, Vocals). Larry also serves as the band’s Booking Manager and is the owner of Belltech Productions LLC, which manages Surfin’ Raccoons bookings and operations.
A Reputation Built on Energy, Versatility & Connection
Throughout the years, the Surfin’ Raccoons have built a reputation as the go-to band for local restaurants, beach bars, private events, festivals, and parties. With a flexible lineup, versatile formats (Full Band or Trio), and an expansive repertoire of hundreds of songs, the band consistently delivers an experience that gets people on their feet and keeps them coming back for more.
Whether performing for locals, seasonal residents, or visitors on vacation, the Surfin’ Raccoons know how to read a crowd, set the vibe, and create a night people talk about long after the music stops.
Our Fans Are Family
A Final Note on Our Legacy
Remember: THE SURFIN’ RACCOONS ARE THE ORIGINAL RACCOON BAND, established in 1985.
Any other band claiming the “Raccoons” name is not the original Surfin’ Raccoons.
