Although Tony grew up in a musical family with his siblings & parents all playing an instrument. He found that he was a natural; quickly developing his skills with the instrument and learning complete songs by ear. With no guitar lessons to speak of, he has transcended out of the rock/blues realm: studying Theory, Songwriting, Sight-reading music, as well as becoming accomplished in Jazz & Classical guitar . After playing with many members of the El Paso band Mattox, he moved to Arizona to further his musical studies. He quickly jumped into the live music scene ; forming a band with members of the punk-outfit Slugworth, sitting in on live sessions with local blues legend Carvin Jones, recording sessions with good friend & DJ phenom Rani G as well as Boston-band Spirithouse. In 2003 he won the Phx Guitarmageddon competition, beating out guitarist Edward Carlson of Flotsom & Jetsam .