| Performer / Band Name |
McGrath
Gary McGrath: Acoustic Guitar, Vocals
Beautiful Woman: Vocals |
| Original / Cover Material |
100% Original Material |
| History of Performer / Band |
The story of McGrath is the story of dreams coming true. As a music student at the University of North Texas, Gary McGrath, for whom the band is named, dreamed of pop sounds like the Beatles and the Monkees, yet could never ignore the seductive call of R&B or the warm feel of jazz. He had been an award-winning soloist and arranger in the Texas Boys Choir, yet also wailed on the electric guitar in touring rock bands like Lothario; and even had the extraordinary opportunity to play a one-night gig as part of Bon Jovi. As a budding producer with his own professional studio, he worked on projects in a variety of genres, from singer-songwriters to country to teen pop idols. Then, one night, as a fan of the Monkees, he had the opportunity to play with Peter Tork.
The rest, as they say, is history.
During a successful touring run with Peter’s band Shoe Suede Blues, Gary had the opportunity to meet and work with some of the most highly respected musicians in the industry. The experience was positive on both sides, and a series of productive relationships was born, leading to McGrath in its current incarnation.
Initially based out of Ft. Worth, McGrath recorded and released its first album, “Music Education,” in 2001 on the GB Records independent label. The Texas band played mostly locally throughout 2001 and 2002 as work on the subsequent releases was conceptualized. In October of 2003, Gary McGrath, who had developed a fruitful relationship with the Los Angeles studio Private Island Trax through a series of mastering projects, booked a week of recording in the Hollywood studio. With performances by notable masters including Luis Conte, Stevie Gurr, and others, the project took on an amibitious set of production goals, ranging from the highly eccentric “The Chance” to the Beach Boys sugar pop tune “California Day”. However, even before the sessions were underway, good news had arrived: Sony was picking the band up for a distribution deal.
With the distribution deal inked, music videos on MTV rotation, and the second record released in January of 2004, it wasn’t long before calls for a third album and a national tour were coming. With the support of his all-star band, Gary McGrath was rapidly becoming the Shooting Star of rock fame. On tour through 2004, McGrath is sure to offer a stage experience that is both eclectic and highly entertaining. Don’t miss an opportunity to catch this extraordinary band as they come through your town. |
| Albums / Where Available |
Insomniatic Daydream, 2004
Available direct from artist. |
= Music samples available for download