South Whidbey Island has long been known as a vibrant arts community, with roots reaching back more than 100 years. From the 1920s artists found refuge in the natural beauty and free-spirit nature of the island we call home.
A new musical group is carrying on this tradition—Eddie and the Bobcats is comprised of Eddie Zarate (singer/guitarist), Terri Anson (Flute/keyboards), Darrell West (bass), Dave Hendrickson (percussion), and Pete Keating (drums). Featuring a repertoire that spans from delta blues to 60s/70s pop to modern originals, their music brings people together through joyous melodies and familiar songs that evoke lifetime memories.
The group was formed in 2025. The members of the group come from radically different backgrounds but found each other at a Tuesday evening music club at Freeland Hall. The music club is open to all comers. Open mic events hosted around South Whidbey are a great showcase for talent around our musical community, and these musicians are frequent contributors!
Terri Anson organized the group. Many folks will recognize Terri and her sparkling smile from her decades at Island Athletic Club.
Eddie Zarate is often seen at the Boy and Dog plaza in downtown Langley, busking for tourists and residents on sunny summer afternoons—often joined by Darrell and Dave to bring joy to all within earshot. These long-time South Whidbey residents decided to formalize their association as Eddie and the Bobcats and have recently been performing at Bailey’s Corner Store and the Bayview Taproom, with upcoming shows at Leo and Leto’s, Jupiter Coffee and several other venues in our neighborhood.
The members of the group came together “to have fun,” and they note that their joyous music does a good job brining people together.
Be sure to watch for upcoming shows and help support the vibrant arts and music scene on South Whidbey.
For more information and to book events, please reach out to TravelingPublicMusic@gmail.com
