Are you a musician struggling to stay inspired on the road? Discover how to keep your passion alive, even when far from home. In this episode of Gig Gab, host Dave Hamilton sits down with Pat Guadagno, a celebrated singer and musical storyteller from the Jersey Shore music scene.
Pat shares his journey from cover artist to respected interpreter of classic songs, including his unexpected collaboration with Blue Öyster Cult’s Buck Dharma. He discusses the evolution of his career, from playing local bars to performing shows celebrating iconic songwriters like Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen.
The conversation delves into Pat’s approach to gear, his preference for Takamine guitars, and why he still records with a Shure SM58 microphone. Pat also offers insights on the importance of always giving your best performance, no matter the size of the audience.
From the challenges of being a non-songwriter in a songwriter’s world to the thrill of unexpected fan encounters, Pat’s stories remind us to “Always Be Performing.” Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for any working musician.
Ready to be inspired? Tune in to this episode of Gig Gab and learn how to keep your musical flame burning bright, no matter where the road takes you.
00:00:00 Gig Gab 468 – Monday, February 10, 2025
February 10th: National Cream Cheese Brownie Day
00:01:43 Guest co-host: Pat Guadagno
00:02:24 Meeting Buck Dharma…without knowing!
Buck Dharma on Gig Gab
00:05:58 The Jersey Shore Music Scene
Saw Bruce Springsteen at a YMCA Dance
00:08:10 A gig on Bob Dylan’s Birthday becomes an impromptu tribute show
BobFest with Pat Guadagno
00:12:11 And then tributes to: Tom Waits, Leonard Cohen, Hank Williams, Warren Zevon, Van Morrison
00:12:43 Tribute bands vs. celebration shows
00:17:48 Bob Dylan covers and collaborations
Wagon Wheel
Well, Well, Well
00:20:05 Tribute shows teach us musicians more about the artist and the songs than just being in a cover band
00:22:20 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50off and use code giggab50off for 50% off!
00:23:46 Pat’s Warren Zevon cover appears in … Californication!
Terry McGovern with Bruce Springsteen
SiriusXM’s Coffehouse Covers
00:28:15 Playing covers vs. originals
Painting Houses is working in bars
Painting Pictures is working on stage
00:29:50 Music Directing METV’s Big Variety Show
Glen Burtnik
00:36:00 Leverage Your Free Time to Book Gigs!
The Shannon Door Pub in New Hampshire
00:39:26 Never take a night off
00:41:55 Gear Gab
Dunlop Custom Made Picks!
Takamine Guitars
LR Baggs Pedals
00:45:00 Shure SM58 for recording vocals in the studio
00:48:31 Traveling as light as I can
Bose S2
00:50:20 Upcoming Pat Guadagno Shows
00:53:11 Gig Gab Outtro
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The post Cover Celebrations, Hard Work, & the Road: Pat Guadagno’s Musical Journey — Gig Gab 468 appeared first on Gig Gab.