In The Beginning Part 1

Tony Gits

Click On Picture To Read Part 2

I went to Canada from Jamaica in the late 70's to visit my cousin Ed, who at the time was the percussionist for Ernie Smith.On this particular day I was to accompany Ed to a rehearsal at the Bathurst Street Theater, this rehearsal was to prepare for a performance that night.As I sat alone in the big ,empty theater watching the band, Ernie became frustrated as the three female background singers failed to sing the harmony correctly.I have no idea what possessed me. I stood up and shouted “I can do it”. Ernie told me to come up on stage and take the mike, to my surprise I was right on the money.He then turned to me and said he was looking for a background vocalist and percussionist, I immediately said I’m your guy. I knew in my heart I had no experience,but this was what I wanted to do. This was to be the beginning of my musical journey.

Along with the glammer and glitter came many responsibilities, I was now chief cook and bottle washer in the literal sense. I was often referred to as, “Prento” short for Apprentice.My duties were driving the van, cooking washing setting up and tearing down the PA system. It was no fun in the cold and snow.As time passed I grew and developed. All I cared about was the music and did what I had to do to be there. My cousin Ed was employed in the hotel industry and was able to travel occasionally.He often told me I stole his job, but if it were not for Ed I would not have made the link with Ernie. Many years would go by, I knew I wanted moor than singing background and playing processions. I wanted to play guitar, sing lead, write and record songs. Thus began the next stage of my musical journey.

To be continued.........

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