Çourtesy photo This is a photo of the Saddle Tramps band. Al Zdan, far right, is a member of the band and recently turned 89 years old. He has been a constant presence in the local music scene in Northeast Michigan for decades.

ALPENA – Born on June 19, 1937, Al Zdan has spent more than seven decades shaping the soundscape of Northeast Michigan. Now 89 years old, Al is widely known as a respected session bass guitarist whose musical journey began in 1953. From humble beginnings to a legacy of community- centered performance, his story is one of passion, craftsmanship, and enduring love for music.

Al’s dedication to his craft was evident early on-not only did he begin playing professionally as a teenager, but he also built his own double-neck guitar, an instrument he still owns today. This hands-on ingenuity reflects the spirit that would carry him through decades of performing across a wide range of musical styles.

Throughout his career, Al has been a cornerstone in numerous bands, contributing his talents to polka, rock and roll, country, gospel, and variety music. His early years included playing with The Nomads (1953) alongside Elwood Smith and Bill Wright at local venues such as Long Lake Supermarket and Jack’s Tavern. By 1957, he joined The Monarchs, performing at events like the Posen Prom and entertaining crowds across the region.

As the years went on, Al became deeply rooted in the local music scene. He performed polkas for

years with The Harmony Boys, and later played Beatles-era music at Wurtsmith Air Force Base with fellow musicians Jim Hardy, Charlie Wozniak, and Larry Sawasky. His versatility led him to join a wide variety of groups, including The Belusar Family Band, The Electras, and Dennis and the Good Ole Boys, each showcasing a different musical style.

One of his longest-running contributions came with The Versatones, a band that played polka music nearly every Saturday night for weddings and parties throughout the area. Al also expanded into rock and roll in the Petoskey area and performed a mix of styles at Club 32 with Ken and Donna Schalk.

In the 2000s, Al continued performing with AK and the Outlaws, blending country and gospel music. He also collaborated with Judy and the Suchey Brothers and became part of The Over the Hill Band, further cementing his reputation as a reliable and talented musician.

Al’s musical journey includes memorable performances alongside well-known artists such as Lorrie Morgan at Spratt Tavern, as well as collaborations with multi-generational musicians like Mel May and the May family at Maplewood Tavern.

Today, Al remains an active and vital part of the local music community. He performs regularly with the Almost Country Variety Band, the house band at Maplewood Tavern, and is part of the CAR Trio with Carole Cadarette and Rick Staeb. Since 2019, he has also been a member of The Saddle Tramps Band, alongside Jeff Powers, Chester Fletcher, Tina Livermore, and Chuck May. The group plays a lively mix of old and new country, rock and roll, and occasional polkas at venues and events including Maplewood Tavern, The Wagon Wheel in Ossineke, the Brown Trout Festival, Alpena’s Downtown Street Performers, and many more.

Behind Al’s long and successful career stood his wife, Jeanine “K” Zdan. Married for 64 years until her passing on June 4, 2025, K was an integral part of his musical life. Often referring to herself as a “band roadie,” she played a crucial role in supporting the bands helping with equipment, logistics, and the countless behind-the-scenes efforts that keep live music going. Together, they were a team that embodied dedication both on and off the stage.

Al Zdan’s story is not just about music-it’s about community, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to bringing people together through song. From dance halls to festivals, taverns to air force bases, his bass lines have been the heartbeat of countless performances. Even today, his presence on stage continues to inspire fellow musicians and audiences alike.

After more than 70 years in music, Al Zdan remains a true local legend-proof that passion, perseverance, and love for the craft can create a legacy that resonates for generations.