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Jay Ritz

As the son of a drum corps instructor, John got started in music early, getting his first drums at age 3. He learned to play a variety of instruments throughout his life, and could fill any spot in the corps if needed, but drums were his mainstay. He played in several bands into his early adult life, and throughout his time in the USAF, until getting married and raising 2 children became his priority. When John took up photography, it was only natural that his lens would turn to musicians, who soon became his favorite subjects. He joined Backstage Axxess in the summer of 2010, and shortly thereafter took on writing as well. As strange as it may seem, his first concert wasn't until high school. He went with a group of friends to see New Edition with Bobby Brown, and Al B. Sure at The Buffalo Memorial Auditorium in December of 1989. Since then, John mainly attends rock and metal shows, but can be seen at a country show with his wife every now and again, and out supporting local bands at various establishments. As a musician himself, John appreciates anyone with the talent and passion to perform live and entertain a crowd, no matter the size. Some favorite artists; RUSH, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, Megadeth, Alter Bridge, Sick Puppies, The Trews, and Van Halen. Top Five Concerts: 1. RUSH - May 27, 1992 Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre, Englewood, CO 2. Metallica - Feb 6, 1992 McNichols Arena, Denver, CO 3. Ozzy Osbourne - June 23, 1992 Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison, CO 4. Def Leppard (In The Round) - Feb 28, 1993 Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, Rapid City, SD 5. KISS - July 14, 2004 Darien Lake

Goo Goo Dolls and Daughtry @ Darien Lake Performing Arts Center, Darien, New York 8-22-14

Posted by By Jay Ritz August 22, 2014

Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival @ Darien Lake Performing Arts Center, Darien, New York 7-29-14

Posted by By Jay Ritz July 29, 2014

3 Doors Down @ Artpark , Lewiston, New York 7-23-14

Posted by By Jay Ritz July 23, 2014

Sevendust @ Rapids Theatre, Niagara Falls, New York 6-27-14

Posted by By Jay Ritz June 27, 2014

Ringo Starr Press Conference @ Casino Rama, Orillia, Ontario 6-5-14

Posted by By Jay Ritz June 5, 2014
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