JOHNNY A. - Growing up in Boston as a young child, he became interested in music, starting with drums at age 6. Upon being exposed to The Beatles in 1964 (age 12), Johnny bought a $49 Lafayette Electronics guitar and started his life-long affair with the instrument. After forming a band called The Streets and playing mostly in the Boston area, Johnny played with former Derek and the Dominos keyboardist Bobby Whitlock, then began a seven year stint with The J. Geils Band front man Peter Wolf. He played on Wolf's albums, and co-produced one of them, as well as joining him on world tours. In 1986, Johnny's band, Hearts On Fire, placed second in the WBCN Rock & Roll Rumble only to be edged out by Gang Green. Gibson's Custom Shop designed a Johnny A. Signature Edition guitar per his specifications, placing him in an exclusive club with B. B. King, Wes Montgomery, Chet Atkins, and Les Paul himself. Johnny says his last name (of Greek origin) was always getting mispronounced. ""It's always been Johnny A. since age eight,"" he says.

Johnny's style often recalls the late great Danny Gatton as well as some aspects of Joe Satriani and Pat Martino. His style walks the fine line between rock, jazz, and blues, often employing copious use of the whammy bar, adding to the texture.

Johnny explains that in the studio he uses much more restraint than playing live. He says he strives to ensure his style passes the test of time. Among his musical influences, he cites The Beatles, Everly Brothers, Wes Montgomery, Chet Atkins, Jeff Beck, Steve Howe, and Les Paul, among others.

Muriel Anderson's All Star Guitar Night benefits the Music For Life Alliance

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