The mission of CivMix has been built on giving community voices and news a platform. From the daily “Rise and Shine” updates to our “CivMix Voices” blog, we want to make sure that you know not only what is happening in the #518 but also meet some of the individuals that are involved and invested in our great community. Contributor Alyssa Lotmore will be highlighting some of those individuals in our new “CivMixer Spotlight” series.
CivMixer Spotlight: Grand Central Station Band
Live music adds vibrancy to communities, engages the brain, and strengthens the sense of belonging and connection with others. From Capital Pride in Albany to the Freedom Park Concert Series in Scotia, Grand Central Station will be playing at a lot of free events this summer. Meet the band. (Responses from drummer, Paul DeBiase).
Q: Grand Central Station. A great name. When and why did you chose that specific name for the band? Is there a meaning, a secret, a funny story behind it?
A: A long time ago (long time) we were in Junior High and started this band. We had about 25 songs learned so we got our first “gig” and did not have a name. We were hanging out watching TV and an advertisement came on the TV and the mailing address was Grand Central Station, NY. One of my friend’s said, “That’s it! Our name is now Grand Central Station.” Kind of last minute but we needed a name and there you have it.
Q: There are some original members and some newer ones. Tell us a little bit about the members of the band and what brought you all together?
A: My brother Frank (bass Player) and I have been with the band since it’s inception. We have had several personnel changes over the years. The current line up we have is the best that Grand Central Station has ever had. The success of any band is the ability to work together and make great music. We have had some amazing musicians over the years and then we have also had those who thought they we “superstars” and that brings poison to the band. I don’t tolerate that mentality and their career with the band is ended immediately.
Our lead vocalists are amazing and can cover just about any style of music and the musicians are first class professionals.
Q: What do you like most about your life as musicians?
A: My musical career has been an amazing journey thus far. I’ve had the opportunity to meet several amazing artists and, as a band, opened for national acts. I also like the fact that besides meeting amazing musicians, I have met hundreds of people I would have never met had it not been for music.
Q: During the pandemic, we all saw what life was like without live music. This summer you are on the schedule for big, free events like Capital Pride in Albany and the Freedom Park Summer Concert Series in Scotia. Why is live music important for communities?
A: Live music brings people together. Music is good for the soul. When we see a crowd of people either singing or dancing (or both), it means we are doing our job. To entertain. Another aspect of performing live is that it makes an impression on the younger generation. I can’t tell you how many people have told us that their children were so impressed by the band that they wanted to start music lessons.
Q: What are three things that makes the Capital Region great for music and entertainment?
A: #1 So many venues and arenas available for live music.
#2 Diversity of music. Especially over the spring and summer months. Whether you like Country, Rock, Gospel, Alternative, Dance, the Capital District never disappoints.
#3 The fact that you can go out and hear your favorite artist or band within a 25 to 30 mile radius is amazing. Great music is all around the Capital District.
