And the story goes…
I still remember when I was a little kid laying on the floor of my grandparents living room in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, and watching the Beatles’ first performance on the Ed Sullivan Show, and somehow knowing at that moment that music would always be a part of my life. I was 6 at the time. There use to be a tape of me singing the hit Downtown, by Petula Clark floating around, My first recording. 😂 Now I’m 68, and music remains a part of my life, with lots of unique experiences along the way – some good and some not so good. And so it goes.
About Me
As a founding member of the band Short Stories (formerly Étude with drummer Larry Munguia) based out of Tucson, Arizona – along with bass player and vocalist Thom Bissey, drummer Ernie Mendoza, and keyboardist Phil Stevens, we produced an infectious brand of ska-infused originals, combined with a knack for strong lyrical hooks, which made for high energy performances that eventually resulted in a 4 song EP and included the catchy singles I’ll See You Again and I Don’t Know.
As a solo artist, I enjoy writing, recording, producing, and expanding my body of original works, including instrumental pop-jazz fusion inspired Midi arrangements, and a few select cover songs from some of my favorite artists including Loggins & Messina. Steely Dan, Fleetwood Mac, Lindsay Buckingham, and Bob Marley to name just a few – although my musical influences are wide-ranging from Bach and Beethoven to Miles Davis, David Bowie, and many singer-songwriters from throughout the decades. Nowadays, I live in Frisco, Texas where I operate a digital media consulting business, Digital Doo-wop, and continue to explore new opportunities in music. I also enjoy traveling, photography, movies, and cooking. I hope you give a listen and enjoy the tunes, and if you find something you like, please share or drop a note and let me know. Cheers!
(L to R) Ernie Mendoza – Drums | Tom Gonzales – Guitar, Lead Vocals | Phil Stevens – Keyboards | Thom Bissey – Bass, Lead Vocals.
Working up a sweat.
Doing a little catching up after a show with my brother Edward.
In the beginning. Tom, Thom, and Ernie.
Me in downtown Dallas, out having fun.
We did have some really good times making music.