NyAirWaves Radio! Exclusive Interview w/ Artist/Musician Tony Thomas

He began his quest for stardom at the early age of 8 years old. His instruments of choice include piano, organ, tenner and alto saxophone, and trombone. Studying classical arrangements, he took private lessons and entered USC’s Preparatory School of Music. After leaving USC’s Preparatory School of Music, he decided that the piano would be his main instrument. Throughout his youth, he then joined one of Los Angeles’ famous cover bands in the early 70‘s by the name of The Infallibles. Soon after that Tony was introduced to the Waters family, whom at the time was recording with Bluenote Label, as their musical director. While working with the band he recorded such hits as “Leading With Your Heart”, “Baby You Got it” and “To Be There”. While working with the Waters family, he performed on stage with such artists as Paul Jackson Jr., Patrice Russian, Bobby Hutchinson, Willie Bongo Brown, Donald Bird and the Blackbirds, Lenny Williams, The DeFranko Family, Bob Boogy Bowls, and Billie Preston. Soon afterwards he worked with Marlena Shaw as her musical director, who at the time was with United Artist Label. Tony Thomas performed what was known then as the Chitterling Circuit, which incorporated every night club of Los Angeles on the southwest side. Afterwards he began to explore reggae music. He was immediately introduced to the godfather of reggae, Joe Higgs. He toured extensively with him all across the country. While with Joe, he had the opportunity to meet and perform with The Wailing Souls. After touring the reggae circuit for over 5 years, he decided to explore his horizons with R&B music. He was then introduced to Eljay Reynolds who at the time was singing with The Dramatics. In which he recorded 2 hit singles, “Come on and Stay” and “Give Me Some Attention Tonight”.