The Light that was Tony Cavagnaro (a memorial)

It is with a heavy heart that I write this blog...

In 2004, Pearl Jam released "Rearviewmirror (Greatest Hits 1991 - 2003). I can still vividly remember the day when I first saw it's cover art. I was in Bologna, Italy visiting family and enjoying some much needed downtime. I was walking the narrow streets in and around the University District and nearly stumbled upon myself when I saw the poster in a music shop window. It was at that moment that everything changed. For whatever reason, that image made me believe in the possibilities. It somehow inspired me to stop longing to take the road more frequently traveled and to veer off into the unknown. You see, I grew up with the notion that 'artist starve-that is no practical way to live'. Well from that moment on, those rules no longer applied, and a photographer was born. (Special thanks to Lance Mercer for capturing this monumental image)


Over the years, I have photographed hundreds of people. Couples, bands, models, everyday folk. In retrospect, none of that would have been possible if it weren't for the first band that I ever worked with...The Buddhahood.

Rick Whitney-Kivett is a dear friend of mine whom I work with at Hogan's Hideaway in Rochester. It just so happens that he also happens to be super-talented bass-man in The Buddhahood. One evening, Rick invited me to come around to the practice space to take some snaps in the hopes of gathering some images for inclusion in an upcoming press kit release. I can remember how nervous I was. I mean, the only time I had ever seen them before was at a show that they had opened for Little Feat!!! They were awesome...everyone was so into it!! So with my Canon 20D in hand and a stomach full of butterflies, I went down to 'the space' to do whatever it was that I was supposed to do. What ensued was pure magic. On that evening a connection was made...a connection that was anchored by creativity and respect. Over the past 3 years, I have worked with The Buddhahood on press kits, CD's, live shows and more. I was even named an official 'Buddhahood-lum' by the band.

Yesterday morning, though, all of that changed. I awoke to the news that Tony Cavagnaro, lead singer/guitarist, and one of the finest human beings that I have ever met, had passed away the night before due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident. This news was absolutely devistating, my friends. For any of you who knew Tony, you know why. Bigger than life, with a boundless energy and kindred spirit that was all his own. Tony was hope. His aura, his smile, his lyrics...they all gave us hope that the world can be a better place. I remember when T pulled me aside to tell me that the work that I was doing was the best he'd seen. That meant (and continues to mean) the world to me. That's who Tony was...encouraging, kind and full of hope. He was what you want a person to be.

So on this sad occasion, I hope. I hope for Tony's wife Jan and his son, Calvin. I hope for his bandmates and their families and friends. I hope for the fans. I hope for all of you who read this that we can stop for a second to recognize what is really important, to revel in the love that we share and give thanks for the people that make living livable. I hope that this finds you all well, with hearts illuminated by Tony's light.

I love you all.

Here are some photos from that first session back in 2005. Wow...it's like a lifetime ago. I still feel that day when I look at these images.

I have high-res copies without the copyright if anyone would like a print. Just let me know.







This one still makes me smile every time that I look at it!!
Rest in Peace my brother. You are missed dearly.

I spoke with Rick and Andrew from the band last night at the candlelight vigil and plans are already in motion for a benefit concert for Tony's family set for late October/early November. We will be debuting the "Live from Park Avenue 2007" Concert CD at the show with all revenue generated going to the family. If you'd like to help in anyway, please let me know and I will find a way to get you involved.

be well,
t