Formed 1988, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.
By All Means comprised of:
James Varner (lead vocals / trumpet / trombone)
Lynn Roderick a.k.a Mikelyn Roderick (vocals)
and
Billy Shepherd (guitar)
Lynn previously worked as an actress in TV shows including 'Moonlighting' and 'Cagney & Lacey', while Billy was an integral part of the group Skool Boyz.
James and Lynn met in 1985 while touring with Bill Withers.
Stan Sheppard (producer) was in the audience and suggested they form a band with his brother Billy.
Signing to 4th & Broadway (via Island) their albums have consisted of 'By All Means' (1988), including 'Surrender' and 'You Decided To Go', 'Beyond A Dream' (including 'I'd Rather Be Lonely') (1989) and 'It's Real' for Motown (1992).
As writers and producers they have also worked with Gerald Alston (ex Manhattans) on his two solo albums for Motown Records.
Since that time the group have adopted a low profile, although Mikelyn Roderick released a solo album entitled 'Copasetic Is' on the Dome Records imprint in early 2007.
Albums:
By All Means (Island 1988)
Beyond a Dream (Island 1989)
It's Real (Motown 1992)