Duke Tumatoe

Bill Fiorio (born 1947),[1] a.k.a. Duke Tumatoe, is an American blues guitarist and singer, who was an early member of the band REO Speedwagon.[2] He has developed a presence as a blues performer and entertainer in the Midwest.

Career

He was born in Chicago, Illinois, United States.[1] Tumatoe was one of the first performers to use a wireless mic and guitar pick-up which allowed him to roam through the crowds during earlier signature tune [I may be a Tumatoe but I can get] "Red Pepper Hot". Tumatoe opened for several blues and rock musicians including Muddy Waters, Buddy Guy, B.B. King, George Thorogood, Fabulous Thunderbirds, Doobie Brothers and John Fogerty. Fogerty produced the 1988 live album, I Like My Job.[1]

Tumatoe's songs are a mix of comedy and blues. He is best known for his regular performances on The Bob & Tom Show syndicated radio show, including the weekly "NFL Song", airing nationally, and "Lord Help Our Colts", which airs locally in Indiana after the end of the national program. These pieces often focus on the previous week's games, as well as the upcoming week's games. He also sung the namesake of Factory Air with the power trio.

Tumatoe tours extensively throughout the Midwest with his band as 'Duke Tumatoe and the Power Trio'. When not on the road he teaches guitar lessons at The Music Station music store in Avon, Indiana. He has lived in Carmel, Indiana with his wife for the past 30 years.

Discography

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "Biography by Al Campbell". Allmusic.com. Retrieved September 19, 2011.
  2. ↑ "REO Speedwagon : Early History of the Band". Answers.com. 2004-07-09. Retrieved 2006-09-17.

External links