MEET THE BANDPhillip Seaton
Born in Washington, D.C. and raised in Maryland, Phillip’s musical journey began early, starting guitar lessons at the age of five before expanding into piano and violin a few years later. After relocating to Las Vegas in 2000, he immersed himself in music and began writing original songs by the age of fifteen, laying the groundwork for what would become a lifelong pursuit. His early start not only gave him a strong technical foundation but also instilled a passion for creating music that balances raw emotion with precision.
Shortly after high school, Phillip took his first steps into professional touring, performing across the country and sharing stages with iconic acts including KISS, Foreigner, 38 Special, and Hawthorne Heights. These experiences sharpened his skills as both a frontman and songwriter, teaching him the art of connecting with audiences while pushing his craft to new heights. His ability to fuse musicianship with an undeniable stage presence quickly became a hallmark of his identity as an artist.
Justin Truitt
Justin Truitt is a Las Vegas–based drummer, composer, and producer with more than 35 years of experience behind the kit. A world-champion percussionist through Drum Corps International, he has performed with the renowned Phantom Regiment and won the 2002 DCI Individual & Ensemble competition with his original solo Dream Wave. His technical mastery and creative voice have established him as one of the most versatile and respected drummers in the region.
Over the years, Justin has become a sought-after musician across genres, lending his skills to both the studio and the stage. He has recorded and performed with a wide range of artists including America’s Got Talent winner Michael Grimm, Shanda & the Howlers, The Vegas Strip Kings, Rick Berthod Band, Trevor Johnson Band, Legends in Concert, and many others. Beyond drumming, he runs his own production and publishing company, JT Dream Wave Music, through which he released his debut self-produced album In These Times.
Justin is also an award-winning music educator, celebrated for growing the Lied STEM Academy band program in Las Vegas from just 23 students to over 395, making it one of the largest in the district. A proud member of the Vic Firth Education Team and a Yamaha Local Hero Artist, he endorses Randall May International, Remo Drum Heads, Sabian Cymbals, Vic Firth, and Yamaha Drums. Influenced by legends such as Stewart Copeland, Neil Peart, John Bonham, Dave Grohl, and Carter Beauford, Justin continues to balance his roles as a husband, father, educator, and multi-instrumentalist—bringing passion and precision to everything he does.
Drew Morris
Drew is a Las Vegas native whose love for music began at the age of four. With nearly three decades of experience behind him, Drew has built an impressive musical journey that spans local projects, national touring, and professional work with a wedding band that took him across the United States. He first connected with Matthew Graham, Newslang’s bassist, through earlier music projects, and their decade-long friendship naturally carried into the band’s current lineup. Drew’s playing style reflects both his versatility and his passion for creating music that resonates with authenticity and raw energy.
Outside of music, Drew is a lifelong skateboarder who also finds joy in snowboarding, gaming, and spending time with the people he loves most. His musical influences include legendary acts such as Nirvana, Soundgarden, Foo Fighters, Led Zeppelin, Muse, and Black Sabbath—artists who shaped his sound and continue to inspire his artistry. With a balance of experience, passion, and personality, Drew brings both technical skill and heartfelt energy to Newslang’s evolving sound.
Matthew Graham
Matthew was born in Austin, Texas, and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. He picked up guitar at age 12 and bass at age 15. His musical journey began in high school with a band formed alongside friends, and later with the project All The Rage—where he first crossed paths with Drew Morris [Newslang Guitarist]. Over the years, Matthew balanced multiple bands and projects, including his current group Lie For Fun, which has toured across several states near Nevada. His introduction to Newslang came through a text from Drew asking him to join. Initially, Matthew declined in order to protect his work-life balance, but after filling in for a Songwriter Showcase that Newslang performed at, he quickly realized the band’s chemistry was something special. He soon chose to step away from other commitments to focus more seriously on Newslang and Lie For Fun.
Matthew’s influences range from classic legends like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and The Eagles, to the raw energy of Rage Against the Machine, Blink-182, and Muse. Outside of music, he’s a devoted husband, a passionate gamer, a self-proclaimed terrible texter, and an unapologetic pizza enthusiast. With his blend of seasoned musicianship, humor, and dedication, Matthew brings both depth and personality to the heartbeat of Newslang.