About Us
Based in North County San Diego, The Smokin’ Ocotillos deliver a high-energy, crowd-pleasing mix of songs spanning multiple genres and decades. Their sound blends classic rock, country rock, blues, funk, pop, and alternative favorites, creating a dynamic setlist that keeps audiences engaged from the first song to the last.
What truly sets The Smokin’ Ocotillos apart is their dynamic lineup: a female drummer and female keyboard player bring a unique edge, while three lead singers keep the sound fresh and the energy high.
With seasoned musicianship, solid vocals, and a strong connection to the audience, The Smokin’ Ocotillos offer more than just great music—they deliver an unforgettable live experience. Whether performing at wineries, clubs, private events, or festivals, the band brings passion, energy, and versatility to every stage.
After retiring at a fairly early age in 2023, Shawn and Sally Weimer began an exciting second chapter—one rooted in more than 40 years of marriage, a lifelong love of music, and a deep devotion to their daughter and two grandchildren.
Forming a band wasn’t just about playing songs; it was about finding the right people to share the journey—musicians who connect, show up, and bring both talent and joy to every performance.
With patience and perseverance, The Smokin’ Ocotillos has grown into a professional, seasoned, and experienced band built on a shared passion for live music. What began as a vision has become a close-knit musical family—talented, dependable, and friendly—now performing regularly and ready to take the next step onto larger stages and higher-profile events.
Discover The Smokin' Ocotillos Band
Shawn Weimer
Shawn started his musical journey by playing the accordion during his childhood. He played drums as a teenager, and then the guitar ever since.
After years of crafting high-end custom acoustic guitars as the owner and luthier for Zoe Guitars, Shawn stepped away from the workbench and back onto the stage, forming a band focused on delivering fun, upbeat, and unforgettable live shows.
Shawn is the lead vocalist and also plays both acoustic and electric guitars.
Sally Weimer
Sally took piano lessons from ages 5 - 17. She has never stopped playing classical music, but about 15 years ago, she slowly transitioned to playing the keyboard.
She honestly never imagined herself in a rock band, but is absolutely loving the challenge and fun of playing with a band and on stage.
Will Yarbrough
Will began playing guitar and singing at age 13 and joined his first band, Nasty Habits, at 18 in Carlsbad. In 1984, he formed the band Yaboo with his brother Tom, launching a long and diverse journey in live music.
In the mid-1990s, Will spent 13 years performing in a San Clemente–based three-piece band, Cultured Pig, honing his skills in tight, groove-driven performances. He later expanded into alternative rock cover bands, primarily on bass and vocals, performing with a wide range of projects over the years.
After returning to a three-piece format on lead guitar, Will eventually connected with The Smokin’ Ocotillos, where he currently plays bass and sings. With decades of experience across genres and lineups, he brings seasoned musicianship, versatility, and a deep commitment to live performance to every show.
Christina Villarreal
At 61 years young, Christina is living proof that it’s never too late to rock. She grew up in Texas surrounded by music—her dad, cousins, aunts, and uncles were all musicians—and that love for music has stayed with her throughout her life. While she’s played various instruments over the years, the drums have always been her first love. Five years ago, she returned to them, and there’s been no looking back.
Christina thrives on the challenge of learning new songs, reliving the music she grew up with, and bringing big energy and heart to every performance. Being part of a band is truly a dream fulfilled, and she’s grateful to share the stage with musicians who are not only incredibly talented, but also a lot of fun to be around.
Rock and roll, baby! 🥁🎸
Don Lightsey
Don brings more than 30 years of experience and a deep passion for live music. He’s played with several local bands and performed at venues throughout San Diego County. While he enjoys a wide range of genres—rock, blues, country, jazz, and metal—Don is especially drawn to blues-infused rock, inspired by legends like Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin, ZZ Top, and Lynyrd Skynyrd.
His first rock concert was KISS at age 11, but it was the soulful blues-rock of Jimmy Page that ultimately inspired him to pick up the guitar a few years later. Don’s playing blends the gritty energy of ’70s and ’80s rock with a melodic, blues-driven style that fits perfectly with the sound of the Smokin' Ocotillos.
Whether he’s locking in a solid rhythm or tearing into a solo, Don brings passion, musicality, and decades of seasoned experience to every performance. We couldn’t be more excited to have him on board.
What Makes Us Stand Out
Engaging Live Shows
Experience the thrill of live music with The Smokin' Ocotillos. Our engaging performances are designed to connect with the audience and create lasting memories.
Vocal Diversity
Our three lead vocalists bring a diverse range of sounds to The Smokin' Ocotillos. This vocal diversity keeps our performances exciting and constantly evolving.
female musicians
Song Choices
Something for Everyone
We love playing a wide variety of music, covering bands and musicians from several genres and decades The list below shows all of the songs we have performed in the past and can play at this time.
You may notice quite a few Tom Petty songs - that is because we all love Tom Petty and even considered becoming a tribute band. Obviously we did not go that route. However, we can easily put a set together of Tom Petty songs if so desired.
Crazy Little Thing Called Love - Queen
Hurts So Good - John Mellencamp
Plush - Stone Temple Pilots
Let Her Cry - Hootie and The Blowfish
Walking Out On Love - Paul Collins, The Beat
Take It Easy - Eagles
3am - Matchbox Twenty
Ice Cream Man - Van Halen
Yer So Bad - Tom Petty
Gold On The Ceiling - The Black Keys
Seven Turns - Allman Brothers Band
Mary Jane's Last Dance - Tom Petty
Rock This Town - Stray Cats
Play That Funky Music - Wild Cherry
Before You Accuse Me - Eric Clapton
You Wreck Me - Tom Petty
While My Guitar Gently Weeps - The Jeff Healey Band
Can’t You See - The Marshall Tucker Band
Wild Horses - Rolling Stones
You and Tequila - Kenny Chesney
The One I Love - R.E.M.
The Middle - Jimmy Eats World
Breakdown - Tom Petty
American Girl - Tom Petty
You May Be Right - Billy Joel
Interstate Love Song - Stone Temple Pilots
Fast as You - Dwight Yoakam
You Got Lucky - Tom Petty
Boys Are Back In Town - The Bus Boys
China Grove - The Doobie Brothers
Saving Grace - Tom Petty
Are You Gonna Go My Way - Lenny Kravitz
Jenny Jenny - Tommy Tutone
Midnight Train to Memphis - Chris Stapleton
Done - The Band Perry
Don't Misunderstand Me - Rossington Collins Band
Somebody To Love - Jefferson Airplane
I Love Rock and Roll - Joan Jett
Free Fallin' - Tom Petty