Michael Catone

About me:

Image by Cool Text: Logo and Button Generator - Create Your Own I have been a semi-professional drummer for over 25 years. A native of Rochester, New York, I have been in only 3 bands. My first band at the age of 13 was called (gasp..) Pink Flamingo (gag, gag!! It was the early 80's.....you know ...'Miami Vice'!!!) and played with them for three years. During my Senior year at Eastridge High School, I met up with my older sister's friends older brother and formed a band called Private Drive in 1988. We lasted for appprx. 11 years and was THE party band in the Rochester, New York area for 6-7 out of those 11 years per a local magazine poll. I am very proud of that group and to have made some permanent relationships with most of the members. We had great camaraderie. My final band in Rochester was the band Reporter. In my opinion, the all-star band of western New York!! I played with them for 8 years and loved every gig as if it were the first gig with them. Never a dull moment. My family and I moved to Tampa, FL in September of 2005. I had a hard time finding a good gig. I met some musicians and played three gigs with them over a 9 month stint. The band then fell apart. While playing with them, I met Rob (Real Productions) who hooked me up with a gig at Victoria's in Brooksville, FL. A great venue for that area and some really great people to play with on stage. We have a great chemistry on stage and put on one of the best shows around. We are still kinda together, but play gigs spoiratically around town. I met up and started playing with Tampa's own Gary Schutt!!!! He is a phenomenal talent, and I am truly honored to be associated with him. He tours with Jeff Scott Soto as his bass player. He keeps me on my toes and brings out the best in my playing. We had workedon his solo projects in the studio and worked hard on our newly formed cover band, Category Three. We added Kevin "David Lee" Rothney to the lineup as our official bass player. He also records and tours for Jon Oliva (Savatage) in Jon Oliva's Pain. After Gary and I put Category Three on the map, I moved to Nashville, TN in June of '09. I am in search of my career full time because time is not on my side anymore. I will complete my dream and aspirations to land a steady gig as well as getting THE gig sometime soon. Stay tuned....the adventure continues......... I currently play Pearl Drums, Sabian AAX cymbals, Evans Drum Heeads, EC2's (clear) on the toms and an Evans Coated Reverse Power Dot on the snare. I had played Sonor Force & Designer kits, Premier Signia, and the Tama Grandstar kits from the late 80's, early 90's. I'll play anything that gives back what I put into it. Top Quality drums all the way!! I am also currently using a Roland SPD-S Sample pad for select samples for certain songs. I am married (11 + years with 3 children) and loving every minute!!! Thanks for viewing my profile and hope you check my videos and friends links!! C'YA!!!!! ..Michael Catone | Create Your Badge
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