Archives.

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.”

1976 Guitarist, Vocalist, Keyboardist, Mandolin, Harmonica, and Fire Breather, Steve Edwards.

Brilliant guitarist and composer Steve Edwards is the dynamic powerhouse behind the exceptional new Cover Band 1976. Born into a musical family from Nashville, Tennessee and a former child prodigy, Mr. Edwards’ exquisite technique, breathtaking musicality, and charismatic stage presence have established his reputation as one of the foremost guitarists of his generation—continually captivating audiences with his electrifying energy and superb musicianship.

Mr. Edwards began playing piano at the age of five and began studying guitar at age eleven after hearing a classical guitar recital at his church on Easter Sunday. Since then, Edwards has concertized throughout the United States and Europe as a recitalist, chamber musician, and soloist—as well as half of the renowned Edwards-Simmons Guitar Duo. After receiving his bachelor’s degree on a scholarship to DePaul University, where he studied with legendary guitarist Leon Borkowski, Mr. Edwards pursued his Master’s degree at DePaul under the instruction of Mark Maxwell. Mr. Edwards has studied and worked with such world-famous guitarists as Pepé Romero, Christopher Parkening, Denis Azabagic, Douglas Niedt, and Robert Guthrie. An exceptionally talented classical guitarist, Mr. Edwards received the distinguished honor of runner up in the Society of American Musicians Guitar Competition.

A versatile chamber musician, Mr. Edwards’s preeminent performance career has included collaborations with many notable artists, including flamenco guitarist Carlos Montoya, legendary jazz pianist George Shearing, and violin virtuoso Gidon Kremer. Mr. Edwards’ extensive theatre credits include The Goodman Theatre’s production of Fecerico García-Lorca’s “Yerma” and Light Opera Works’ production of “Man of La Mancha.” Recordings of Mr. Edwards have been featured on national broadcasts by Chicago’s fine arts radio station, 98.7WFMT as well as on Radio France.
Having played in bands since the age of eleven, Mr. Edwards formed his newest Band 1976. He has devoted a lifetime of experience to performing and has appeared in concert with Dave Mason, Buddy Guy, and George Shearing.

Mr. Edwards is a prolific composer and arranger for film and live theatre. His compositions on his World Music Group Guitarra Azul’s trio of CD’s “Mariposa”, “Oasis” and “Lotus Flower” have received great acclaim as well as enthusiastic reception from audiences Worldwide.