Tony Martin Orchestra / michaeljmcgee.com

The Tony Martin Orchestra 1982 - 1987

I initially walked into Tony's Mr. Print shop on Krome avenue in Homestead, Florida in 1981.

He was looking for a printing pressman which I had no experience in but he gave me an opportunity anyway.

Which launched me on my printing pressman career to this day.

I worked at Tony's print shop "Mr. Print" as a pressman / manager from 1981 to 1984 then from 1985 to 1988.

During this time he also started "South Dade Music" which I still have the many fine drum products to this day.

He sold his print shop to his eldest daughter Ann & her German boy friend who moved the location & turned it into a copy shop which would eventually fail after a short time.

I slowly started gigging with Tony when my cover band 7 Heaven wasn't working. Tony paid me very well!

When I gigged with Tony he almost exclusively played wedding receptions. Also he put me to work doing quite a bit of DJ and Drum lesson work as well. He was a really cool guy to work for and I learned a lot about the ins and outs of booking, pricing dates, dealing with hiring musicians and dealing with clients to list a few. He was also nice enough to let my band7 Heaven rehearse in the back of the shop.

Tony was very hard working man with 9 children. He was a great influence on me during my early 20's with his multiple business's, vast social skills, free spirit & his overall love for performing. After his countless gigs which I participated in we would visit the local late night clubs of his choosing.

I had fond memories of my working for Tony together for many years! I have heard he has retired in Vero Beach, Florida & I wish Tony the "Best of Luck". I miss him & his infectious personality dearly!

The dapper Tony Martin promo shot 1980.