In the early 1980s, a San Diego band was searching for a replacement lead singer. The bass player remembered a man with incredible vocals he saw at an earlier audition. Tony Ortiz was called and performed three songs for the band. By the end of the last song The Monroes had found their man. Together, the group performed Ortiz's original songs at a number of showcases in the L.A. area. They were thrilled to be signed by a small Japanese label, Alpha Records. By 1982, The Monroes' song, "What Do All the People Know" reached #52 on the Billboard Hot 100. The group performed on the Merv Griffin Show, and by that summer, were on national tour opening for Rick Springfield.
The Monroes traveled the first leg of their tour via station wagon. Ortiz has many great memories of the time and is still in contact with his friends and band mates. While on tour, Ortiz was backstage preparing for a show when a man approached him and complimented Ortiz on his vocal abilities. As the man walked away, Ortiz's manager asked if he knew who the man was. Ortiz was shocked to discover the source of the compliment was Neil Young.
But good things do not always last. The small record label went bankrupt midway through the tour. Shortly after, The Monroes were signed to another label, but the relationship did not prove as illustrious as the first. Eventually, the group dispersed. Ortiz moved to Minnesota where he currently resides. He is working tirelessly on a new Cd, Tony O.: Someday, filled with Ortiz's original music which is nearing release.
This self-taught singer/songwriter is proof that if you discover your talent and continue to cultivate it, limitations will fall away. In every aspect of life, Ortiz believes "you never know how what you do is going to affect people, so always do your best." If the opportunity happens to present itself, do not miss the chance to see Ortiz performing his best originals works. He is often spotted at School II and Plums Bar in St. Paul participating in open mic nights.
Find out more about Tony Ortiz and his upcoming shows @
Hip Pocket Records
Tony's myspace
Merv Griffin Performance
*Tony will be appearing at Living Waters Market on Nov. 20th with MJ Kroll
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