Lincoln's Best Band of 2022 to perform this month

Guilty as Charged band, a local group ranging from 12 to 17 years old, has some big performances coming up, according to Steve Pagano, Rockstar Music Academy owner in Lincoln. "Don't let their youth fool you," Pagano said. "These guys can hold their own in any club, festival or stadium and they have played them all." Guilty as Charged was formed as a group of music students at the Rockstar Music Academy in 2021, according to Pagano. He said they perform a "cool mix of music from the best of classic rock to today's favorites." The band lineup includes Brayden Shaffer on lead vocals, Mason Moore on guitars, Stevie Pagano on guitars and vocals, Cade Christopherson on bass and vocals, Halen Morgan on drums and Brody Manning on keys and vocals. "They are exceptionally good," Pagano said. "They play on an adult level and can throw down with the best of the best. Bigger bands often invite them to come on stage at their performances." Guilty as Charged was voted Lincoln News Messenger's Best Band of 2022 and according to Pagano, they sell out of every show. Guilty as Charged will perform at noon Saturday at Denio's Farmers Market at 1551 Vineyard Road, Roseville. The band will also perform Feb. 11 at the iconic Boardwalk in Orangevale at 8 p.m. and from noon to 2 p.m. Feb. 12 at the Brick and Barrel Super Bowl Tailgate Party at 155 Joiner Parkway, Lincoln. "This year has a lot in store for us," said Braden Shaffer, 17, lead singer of Guilty as Charged." "I'm really grateful to perform for different cities in front of so many people. It's an exhilarating experience." Shaffer said he got into music at the age of 2 through the popular video game 'Just Dance'. Shaffer discovered he "could sing around the same time" he learned to talk "so music has always been a part of my life." "I wasn't expecting us to win any awards or go this far but it's an honor to," Shaffer said. "We (Guilty as Charged) definitely earned it by dedicating all of our time and bringing our A-game game to every performance." Shaffer said his goal is to continue to pursue music by attending Sierra College in Rocklin and studying music theory. He hopes the community will continue to see and support Guilty as Charged.