Hailing from the frozen reaches of Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Hank “Hutch” Turkenton spent his formative years surrounded by towering evergreens, icy waters, and very little sunlight. After studying Ocean Sciences at the University of Victoria, Hutch ventured south to Omaha, Nebraska, where he landed a prestigious internship at the Henry Doorly Zoo’s Polar Bear complex. His primary responsibility involved the collection and disposal of polar bear waste, a position that required nerves of steel, a strong stomach, and remarkably little musical talent.
Before finding his true calling in music, Hutch also enjoyed a brief career as a forest fire scout, a profession he abandoned after discovering that most fires were considerably less enjoyable up close.
An accomplished keyboardist, saxophonist, and vocalist, Hutch has always been drawn to the music of the 1970s, particularly its heartfelt songs about uncomplicated love and simpler times. His appreciation for smooth melodies and timeless grooves made him a natural fit for PetRock.
When he’s not performing, Hutch enjoys woodworking, spelunking, and recreational tree climbing.
Having grown up in a land known for its cold temperatures and long, dark winters, Hutch has found a welcome contrast in PetRock’s devoted fans, affectionately known as the Pebbles.
As Hutch puts it, “Born in a land that is usually cold and dark, I’m finding PetRock fans are the exact opposite… full of warmth and light.”
Hutch, we couldn’t agree more.
