Today we’d like to introduce you to Gary Tropiano of Something Contagious.
Gary, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Our band, Something Contagious began being formed around a year ago. It started with myself and Danny Horton, our lead guitarist. We found out quickly we had a similar taste in music styles, but more importantly a love of music, We began jamming in my living room, which progressed into open mic nights and so on. Once the new year rolled around we decided it was time to take it to the next level. So, we booked ourselves a rehearsal studio and began holding auditions. The next member to join our group was Andrew Sander, our bassist. Finding a drummer was proving to be a challenge; however, Andrew suggested we try out a friend of his from work. From the first hit of the snare drum, Simone Sternini was hired. Together we realized we had something very special. Between my songwriting ability, Andrew’s acute sense of timing and structure, Danny’s mind-blowing guitar work and Simone’s powerful drum hits, we were on our way.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Like any band starting out, booking gigs can be a challenge. However, I used persistence and honestly, probably a little bit of annoyance to get us shows out of the gate. It began with a scheduled private show for June, which was what we were working towards. However, we quickly booked a show at The 710 Club opening for Electric Mud, which was a huge deal. That show became priority number one because we knew that not only did we have to nail it, it would also open up a lot of opportunities for us.
We’d love to hear more about your band.
Our band is an original rock n roll band. We are all about audience interaction and putting on a great show. Our songs consist of catchy choruses, soaring guitar solos and foot-stomping grooves. We want each song to be stuck in your head when you walk out the door. We pride ourselves in leaving everything we have on the stage, every night, no matter the venue or audience size. Our proudest moment to date was playing at the Music Box this past August once again with Electric Mud. The venue was packed between both of our fans and I am confident in saying that the show was phenomenal. We posed for photos, signed personal items and received a lot of great feedback from the crowd.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I personally define success in a few ways. The first one being, no matter what it is you do, make sure it’s something you love. For some people that’s being a doctor, for some, it’s an accountant, and for some it’s an artist. But, at the end of the day, if it’s something you’re truly passionate about, it will drive you to succeed. As a band, our goal is to take it as far up the ladder as possible. Ideally, a record contract, touring the world and most importantly writing songs that will leave a legacy long after we are gone.
Contact Info:
- Website: Somethingcontagiousofficial@gmail.com
- Phone: 6233266502
- Instagram: @somethingcontagiousofficial
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