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Musician Steve Frangadakis: “Be As Versatile As You Can”

New Greek TV's featured Greek of the Week is musician Steve Frangadakis.

The talented entertainer has performed on national television, co-written a song that was used in a feature film, and toured with Bret Michaels. In addition to his own personal musical triumphs, Frangadakis also serves on the other side of the industry as AEG Live's Manager, and has overseen leading tour contracts that include Katy Perry, Bon Jovi, Bruno Mars, and Enrique Iglesias.

Recently Frangadakis performed on the new "Quantum of the Seas" ship, that is hailed as the world's first smart ship. The down-to-earth native Greek who was raised in California, offered the following interview where he described his musical journey, career, experiences, Hellenic background and more.

Maria Athens: Can you tell us about your early life in terms of your upbringing and education, leading up to your musical career?

Steve Frangadakis: I was born in Greece, but I've lived in California for most of my life. I originally wanted to be a dentist like my uncle Kenny, but I was drawn more towards the music industry. My parents were very supportive, but I was scared to death when I told them I didn't want to be a dentist.

They told me that they didn't care what I decided to do, as long as I made a choice and did my best at whatever career path I wanted to take. Thankfully the college I was attending as a stepping stone to dentistry (University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA), also offered a business degree with a concentration in entertainment management. I literally just walked across campus and registered for my new path in life.

Maria Athens: When did you realize you were musically gifted? Did you always want to be a musician?

Steve Frangadakis: I don't think I've ever thought of myself as musically gifted because it took a lot of work to be good. I definitely wasn't a natural, but that never really mattered to me. All I cared about was having fun when performing. I wanted to play music since I was 14, and I thank my parents for allowing me the opportunity to make a lot of noise for all of those years when I lived at home. Trust me, it was LOUD.

Maria Athens: What have been the highlights of your career so far?

Steve Frangadakis: Every show I play is a highlight because I'm thankful to be able to still play...and getting paid for it is just the icing on the cake! Playing music with friends and enjoying the moment is a continuing pleasure. There are several bucket list moments that I am proud to have been able to do at least once. From playing in front of large festival crowds, to performing on national television, to having songs in a movie and on television. I'm just really lucky and thankful!

Maria Athens: What musical feat are you most proud of?

Steve Frangadakis: I was asked by a composer friend if I'd be interested in co-writing and performing a song (guitar and lead vocals) for a movie he was working on. I didn't know that many details regarding the release of the movie, or the placement of the song.

I actually though it would be a "direct to dvd" type of thing that wouldn't be released in theaters. I was later told that the song would be used in the end title credits, and the movie was a real theatrical release. It was a very surreal moment watching the movie with my parents at a theater in Los Angeles as my voice was belting out through the big theater room.

Maria Athens: You also serve as the Manager for AEG Live, what does that entail?

Steve Frangadakis: I am a contract manager in the legal department of AEG LIVE, where I oversee 14 regional contract administrators. AEG LIVE is the second largest concert promoter in the world, so I tend to deal with contracts for our bigger tours (Bruno Mars, Bon Jovi, Katy Perry, Enrique Iglesias and Pitbull).

Maria Athens: You have traveled all around the United States and beyond performing, what have been some of your most rewarding experiences?

Steve Frangadakis: Touring with Bret Michaels was the most intense and rewarding musical experience. Bret really makes you rise to the best of your ability because he is so driven and focused. I didn't realize how little I knew about performing until I toured with him. It was like going through stage performance boot camp with a rock star teacher as our leader.

Maria Athens: Where does your family originate from in Greece? Do you travel back to the homeland regularly?

Steve Frangadakis: My dad is from Crete and my mom is from Samos. Since I was born in Greece, there's a strong possibility of being drafted by the Greek army if I return before I turn 45. I'm told I can receive clearance to return without being drafted, but I'm not sure I really want to take that chance. The last time I visited was in 1984. I was too young to really appreciate it, but I'm looking forward to going back as soon as I can.

Maria Athens: Was it challenging, initially breaking into the entertainment industry?

Steve Frangadakis: I was really lucky when I decided to get into the music business. My cousin Cory Lerios (composer/songwriter, "Pablo Cruise") introduced me to his music agent friend Vasi Vangelos, who gave me my first job opportunity (you can't go wrong with the Greek hook-up). I've been blessed to maintain a "real job", while still playing music on the side. It's truly the best of both worlds.

Maria Athens: What's your best piece of advice for someone trying to make it as a musician?

Steve Frangadakis: Be as versatile as you can. Don't just learn one instrument. Try singing so you'll be more well-rounded than every other guitar player/instrumentalist out there. I've received more work because I can sing as well as play. It's not because I'm a great guitar player (because I'm far from it). With that said, the best advice would be to work as hard as you can at writing songs.

The truth is, anyone can become a decent musician with a little bit of work, but most people really don't care about that sort of thing. What matters is the song...and great songs are timeless. If there was one thing I could go back in time to give my 14-year-old self some advice, it would be to write, write, write, then write some more.

Maria Athens: Have you conducted any Greek or Hellenic-inspired performances?

Steve Frangadakis: I have not. I should consider picking up the bouzouki for a little while. It would be fun to learn, but I'm not sure I could keep up with those real bouzouki players! They play so fast that I have a hard time keeping up when I just watch them perform.

Maria Athens: What's next for Steve Frangadakis?

Steve Frangadakis: My main goal is to grow as much as I can in the music business side of things. To be 100% honest, I've never had a game plan when it comes to playing music. I've always just looked at it as an outlet where I can have fun and let off some steam.

Last modified onFriday, 19 December 2014 18:20