May 7, 2010 - Tony Campise

My Influences

Tony Campise
Musicianer, genuine human


Tony Campise was a regular portion of my experience at The Elephant Room since I had moved to Austin.
I first regarding him as the jovial fellow who cracks wise with the band and spreads a general good humour about the place. I didn't know until later that he was such an accomplished musicianer boasting a polished resume.

It was at Gino's Italian Grille where I really started to hang out with the man. I played there every other Thursday with Erik Hokkanen and it seemed that every other Thursday, Tony was coming to spend the final hours of his day at Gino's. Upon entry, he would make the rounds to say hello to just about everyone in the place (I think he somehow knew everybody in Austin) and, of course, come to the stage to joke with us. Erik would invite him to play with us and, after a few minutes of enjoying the music and the company, merry-making and rabble-rousing Tony would grab an instrument and swagger up to the stage.
The music he played with us was always great. Afterwards, as the restaurant closed and folks went home, Tony would sit and share stories with all of us. He would also take some time out to support and encourage our musicianship in the warmest way.
Those hangs started turning up at The Elephant Room for Pharaohs gigs. I'm so very thankful for so many good musical memories and quality support from such a genuine man.

A few weeks after suffering the house fire, I recall playing a Pharaohs gigs at The Elephant Room. I had played the gig and was heading home. Tony was playing there for the later show. We ran into each other upstairs at the door. He very kindly held it open for me as I muscled my instrument through the opening.
I'm not sure exactly how he knew something bigger had happened to me but he asked me if something was amiss. I told him that the house had burned a bit but everything was coming together despite the misfortune.
Tony seemed to turn off the usual light-hearted wise guy at the moment he heard about the fire. He asked me to make sure that I had his telephone number and told me that I was to call him at any time, day or night, if I needed someone to help me get through the emotional waves that I might be experiencing. He shared some kind feelings about the situation and some good advice. Then, we went our separate ways. For a few weeks after that, whenever he bumped into me, he would check to make sure I was doing well.
I may have been in a good place but it was such a good feeling to know that there was somebody who wanted to check in on me just because he thought I might need it.
Mr. Campise!

So, it's that good spirit that I'll carry with me when I remember this good man. It goes without saying that I'll remember his great music, light heart, and his wit.

Thank you for everything you've given all of us, Tony!

http://www.heartmusic.com/tony/bio.html