Big Bang Radio

The members of Big Bang Radio sweat hard during their energetic performances and just as profusely behind the scenes, making their dream a reality. In only its second year, BBR makes its second appearance at the infamous Bang Music Festival.

Big Bang Radio's musical influences include timeless rock legends such as Stevie Wonder, Jimi Hendrix, and Slash. Besides agile musicianship, BBR has another element on its side: a mixture of business sense and strong music performance experience. That combination helped the bandmates catch the attention of Jesse Stoll, a college marketing rep for Sony working through the University of Miami. Lead vocalist Francisco Del is a skilled producer who has worked with Gloria Estefan. Keyboardist Ron Anthony gained invaluable behind-the-scenes knowledge as an intern in the A&R department of RCA Records. Alex Zapatier is a guitar wiz whose past musical projects have opened for Fuel and Bryan Adams. Newest member Ian Jones contributes strong drumming skills and youthful exuberance to the band. Burner recently spoke with Ron Anthony about the band.

Who are you most excited about performing with at the Bang Music Festival this year?

Duran Duran. We like a lot of the bands that are playing; I'm really excited to see Gnarls Barkley too. Duran Duran is one of our biggest influences. To be on that stage that they are going to be performing on later in the day is such an honor.

What is the most valuable lesson you learned about the music business while working at RCA Records?

Being exposed to the A&R aspect and how difficult it is for a band to make it and what is it that A&R agents are looking for. That aspect of the industry was very eye-opening for me — recognizing the hardships that can come along with it. If you're passionate about it, hopefully people will see your vision.

What do you guys have planned next as far as releases and tours?

We have an EP out right now and are in the process of finishing up a full-length with Bob Rosa, who has been doing a lot of mixing and engineering for us along with some coproducing. He's a Grammy Award-winning producer/engineer; he's up in New York right now with Christina Aguilera. Bob believes in the project and believes in the band, and that's exciting. We're eleven songs in with one month of studio time left and are hoping on completing a twelve- or thirteen-song full-length. — J. Biver