Tonight’s mystery artist when asked what advice he had for up and coming guitarists said he’d tell them to steer away from talent shows and play the clubs. Can you guess who he might be or the band he plays with??

This fellow is quite a guitarist and describes his early career as Ted Nugent’s understudy.  He actually has played and toured with many an impressive artist such as Bon Jovi’s Richie Sambora and Cher. However, he makes his home with REO Speedwagon as lead guitar and vocals namely Dave Amato. Dave has been with the band since 1989 and will be out front when they come back to the Waterfront this summer. His thoughts on how to get somewhere in the music business came from and interview with Guitar World.

GW: Any advice you can offer to up-and-comers?

DM: Do anything and everything you can to fit in. Expose yourself to everything. I’ve worked with Ted Nugent, Kim Carnes and even the band, Player. I’ve also worked on a few of LaToya Jackson’s early records too (I played synthesized guitar on there). It’s the experience of meeting people and getting involved in different styles of music that makes it all worthwhile. Also, don’t try to be an "American Idol." I think there’s something to be said about working from the ground up. Go into the clubs and work on your craft, and try to give 100 percent every night. If you really want to do it, it takes all of your life. I’m still working on stuff. The key is to never stop learning.

Here they are live to prime your pump for this summer.

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