Today we’d like to introduce you to Dan DeCarlo.
Hi Dan, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Having played in several cover bands for decades and a couple tribute projects as well. I wanted to remain a part of the incredible tribute scene in the Cleveland area and surrounding states.
I started putting this project together during the summer of 2024 with the intent and sole purpose in building a John Mellencamp tribute show like no other.
I started reaching out to musicians I was currently playing with or have played with to see if they’d be interested and motivated to take on the challenge.
That led to Steve Penfound (lead guitar), Kurt Striffler (bass guitar), Mike Kovacs (drums), Lynn Jarrell (backing vocals) and myself (keyboards). All seasoned musicians from the Cleveland area.
In addition to finding the perfect lead vocalist…I knew that we had to find the right female fiddler too or this would be just another cover band.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
After sifting through a couple of singers and a rhythm guitar player quitting, everything went stagnant for about two months until I received a call from Rob Jackson asking if we were still looking for a lead singer. Fortunately, everyone was willing to give it one more try, because as it turned out, we found our perfect lead singer.
Within days we received emails from Krista Solars (fiddle) and Josh Hancher (rhythm guitar), both of whom are amazing musicians and we were able to round out this lineup
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a fire alarm technician for a large electrical contractor in Cleveland. My job consists of programming, inspections, service, etc.
Any big plans?
Retirement is right around the corner for me. My wife and I plan to travel, spend as much time at our property in California, regularly visit wine country, days at the beach…watch our children and grandchildren grow. Enjoy life to the fullest.
And keep playing music for as long as it’s fun.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/97crossesmellencamptribute/ and https://www.instagram.com/97crosses/
- Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577846338444
- Youtube: 97 Crosses
- Other: 97crosses@gmail.com
