Ray Sapko

1976 Guitar Virtuoso and Living Legend, Ray “Magic” Sapko.

Born and raised in Chicago, IL USA, was one of the three founding members of the rock group Tantrum. Recording three albums consisting of all original material, “Tantrum”, “Rather Be Rockin” and “Breaking Away”, the band toured the USA performing with many well known artists including Ray Charles, Kansas, The Clash, Edgar Winter, Rick Derringer, Ian Hunter, Mick Ronson, Mitch Ryder, Nicky Hopkins, Nazareth, Jim Peterik and Survivor and Molly Hatchet.

In late 2005 a 2CD compilation set (Rather Be Rocking/Tantrum/Breaking Away) [Escape Records]) was released consisting of all the material contained on the three albums. Says one reviewer, “All in all this entire package features thirty tracks from possibly the most unique and exciting female fronted band in the history of rock music.” The song “Applaud the Winner” co-written by Sapko was chosen by Kerrang! Magazine to feature on a compilation called “Konnoisseurs.” The same reviewer comments,”That one song alone is a remarkable introduction to this very talented band.” According to The International Encyclopedia of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal: “The three female vocalists sometimes harmonized or took the lead vocals individually – either way it was devastating, and complemented by some great guitarwork from Sapko.”

After the breakup of Tantrum, Ray continued his study of music receiving his Bachelors Degree in Guitar, studying at The American Conservatory of Music, Roosevelt University, Sherwood Conservatory of Music and Northwestern University. His many instructors included Richard Pick, Jack Cecchini, Seigo Yamata, Willie Pickens and Rich Medel. Ray has also taught guitar at several schools in the Chicago area including The American Conservatory of Music. Since that time Ray has never stopped performing, teaching and composing, and in his words, “all with the realization that those three things have been my true intention ever since childhood.”