BIO
We are Those Guys.
In September of 1996, Those Guys began, like most bands, in a basement in Somerset, Massachusetts. Since that time, they have been a staple in the RI music scene--especially in their home town of Newport. Playing from Washington DC to northern Vermont, they have shared the stage with Staind, Survivor, Loverboy, Orleans and John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band, Saving Jane, Bo Bice, Cary Brothers, & Paul Stookey of Peter, Paul, & Mary.
While making a name for themselves in the hotspots of New England, they quickly became a popular choice for those that demanded a top-quality form of entertainment. Their high energy, non-stop show style, combined with their expansive song-lists have made them the best choice for private parties, weddings and corporate events. People of all ages can be found dancing and singing along with Those Guys! Those Guys have entertained groups such as: The Newport International Film Festival, The New England Patriots, high-profile members of the Boston Red Sox organization, The University of Rhode Island, Salve Regina University, Raytheon Corporation and Georgetown Events in Washington, DC....and many more.
You will dance! Even if you don't know how! Guaranteed!
John Halloran
Lead Vocals / Frontman
As a founding member of Those Guys, this is the longest job I've ever had. Music has always been a part of everything I do in my life and I am so grateful for all of the bands and songs that have provided my life's soundtrack and inspired me to be like them. I wish I could personally thank them all. My first concert was Deep Purple in 1987. The singer in the opening band that night was (and still is) one of my dearest friends in the world. He planted the seed. Several years later, my girlfriend (now wife) encouraged me to follow through. She still does. She is my soulmate and ultimate support. We have three great kids who I love beyond words.
Music is always playing in my home and I love many bands and genres but my 'be all/end all' is Pink Floyd. Animals is my favorite album.
The relationships and experiences that I have had in my time with TG at every level are something I will always cherish and remember. Serving as host of hundreds of weddings over the last few decades is an honor I will never be able to express the adequate amount of gratitude for. Being in the presence of two people deeply in love and about to begin their life's journey is inspiring and infectious. I have been blessed surrounded by amazing talent and friendships throughout my career. I eagerly look forward to the next gig!
Greg Tedino - Bass, Backing Vocals
I have been with Those Guys starting in January of 2020. In the time that I have been part of this band I have made many new friends and played some amazing shows. The experience has been life changing for me. Being a part of a professional, well established cover band has been a dream come true. I am in awe of the exceptional musicians I work with, as well as the amazing support from the fans who have supported this band for over two decades.
I have been playing bass and guitar since I was 13 years old. I have always loved music since I was very young and finally got the opportunity to learn about guitar and bass when I became a teenager. My father was in bands growing up and I feel my love of music was passed down from him.
I have been in several cover bands over the years such as Circus Crash and Cuzin Eddy. My first concert was Bon Jovi and Skid Row in 1989 at the age of 12. Our drummer Bobby was there with me and we were in awe of the sound, performance and production. We immediately wanted to start a band. Over the years I discovered many other hard and heavy bands that have inspired me such as Iron Maiden, Tool, Megadeth, Metallica, A Perfect Circle and Black Sabbath. My playing style was heavily influenced by some incredible bassists such as Steve Harris, Geezer Butler, John Paul Jones, Justin Chancellor, and Cliff Burton.
I have been with my girlfriend Laura since 2005. We met at one of my shows when I was in Cuzin Eddy, and she has always supported the bands that I have been involved in. We live in Coventry, Rhode Island and have two Australian Shepherds, Alia and Roman. I have been teaching 5th grade since 2000.
Bob Siipola - Guitar, Backing Vocals
Original member since 1996. So lucky to be a part of this band and entertaining audiences throughout southern New England. I love when people get into the music and the band feeds off their energy! So much of music for me is making other people happy and having fun! It's been quite a ride lots of crazy stories. Looking forward to playing many more shows with these guys!
Former bands: Live Wire; Tempered Steel; Turbulence.
First concert was backstage at Aerosmith...second Eagles / Fleetwood Mac.
Musical influences include Led Zep, Beatles, Stones, 80s Glam and 90s Alt. I would classify my style of guitar playing as a mix of classic rock with a punk edge.
I've owned lots of different gear over the years trying to stay on top of new technology. If I had only saved some of my early guitar rigs... HiWatt/Orange stacks; a BC Rich Mockingbird; Echoplexes...
Engineer and father of three when not rocking with Those Guys.
Bob Costa - Piano, Keyboards, Acoustic & Back-up Vocals
I have been with Those Guys for 20 years starting in October of 2001. I have never looked back; my journey with TG has been one full of great memories, good times, and many friends established over the years. I am still in awe of the tremendous support we have received from our fans and venues all-over southern NE year after year. I come from a musically talented family and it continues to be a big part of my life. I started taking lessons to play accordion when I was 8 years old and then switched to piano at about 12 years old after my parents bought a used beat up upright. I played keyboards and fronted several cover bands through the 80’s and 90’s before joining TG. I started my first band at the age of 12. My first concert was in 1977, Kiss Alive. I have many music influences (Led Zeppelin, Queen, Boston, VH…..too many to list them all). I have always been inspired by piano virtuosos like Billy Joel, Elton John, Jordan Rudess, and Keith Emerson. I was born and raised in SE Mass. I have been happily married to my wife Cindy for 36 years; Cindy has always been by side and supported my love and desire for music and performing. We raised two great kids who we are very proud of. My day job is at a manufacturing company servicing the commercial aircraft, automotive, and Energy markets with specialty tools. I’ve been employed by them for 40 years.
Bobby Santagata - Drums
I joined Those Guys in late January 2019. Since joining I have loved being a part of “Those Guys” family. I have loved every second of entertaining with probably some of the best, and greatest musicians I can now call family. There is nothing better than being able to do what you love with people you enjoy being around. The support this band receives from their strong and loyal fan base has been amazing, and I have been so glad to be a part of it.
I started playing the drums at the young age of 5, and I have never looked back. Growing up my parents were very supportive of my passion for music. They put up with many long hours of me playing in the basement, and never complained to much about the noise. I will never forget the first time my drum teacher played me Tom Sawyer by Rush. He placed the sheet music in front of me and I was instantly hooked and amazed by the playing of Neil Peart, and it has never gone away. Small little fact is that Greg the bass player has been my musical partner for over 30 years as we grew up together.
Greg and I were taken by our Fathers to our first concert Bon Jovi, and Skid row. We had floor seats and I remember my Dad placing me on his shoulders so I could see the drummers. From that point forward I knew I wanted to be in front of an audience. Greg and I use to play in my basement and video tape ourselves with my Dad’s old VHS camera. I still have that camera, but boy do I wish I had some of those tapes. Over the years I played in many local bands starting at the ripe age of 14. My Father would spend many nights driving me to clubs and calming down Club owners as they were fearful of my age. In the late 1990’s I was part of the very successful local Ska band The Agents, spending many days away from home traveling to shows.
As the years went on, I found my second passion in life Law Enforcement and have been serving as a Police Officer (Detective) since 2002. I live in the City of Warwick and have two incredible children who keep me on my toes every day.