Today we’d like to introduce you to Jay Gates.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I moved to Boston in 1984 to attend the Berklee College of Music. Graduated in 1988, recorded and performed as a drummer in Trash Broadway (Torrid/Important Records) and Nevada Beach (Warner Bros/Metal Blade Records) for 7 years.
Enrolled in a masters program at New England Conservatory 1995 and simultaneously began teaching music in the Boston Public Schools… a position that I still hold after 22 years.
In 2000 I returned to performing (in addition to teaching) as a drummer in a regional favorite Van Halen tribute band “Diver Down” and with international recording and touring artist Joe Stump.
2008 I began Impersonating Rod Stewart. And in 2016 I add a Barry Manilow impersonation.
Has it been a smooth road?
It’s been a real balancing act… juggling teaching and performing. I’ve learned (the hard way) that the more prepared I am, the more rewarding both of my jobs are!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Jay Gates Impersonates – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
With my Rod Stewart impersonation…
Armed with a repertoire of over forty songs, dressed to the nines in full Rod regalia, and belting it out with a raspy four-octave range, Jay consistently brings it on and dares any audience anywhere to leave his performances unhappy. Fun is had by all and it is always a jolly good time indeed!
Be it with a dynamic four-piece band, along with backing tracks, or any combination in-between, Jay astonishingly recreates all phases of Rod’s award-winning career from his early days with the Jeff Beck Group and Faces right through to his current residency at Caesars Palace Las Vegas.
And Barry Manilow…
No stranger to the tribute world, Jay Gates’ impersonation of Barry Manilow has “Fanilows” agreeing that this act is rapidly becoming THE show to see! Be it the classic Copacabana, sing-along Can’t Smile Without you, or show-stopping Even Now, Jay’s faithful representation of Barry’s voice combined with a jaw-dropping visual portrayal and multimedia presentation always leaves audiences wanting more!
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love the great yoga community and the vibrant music community we have in Boston. The best seafood on the planet… and the full effect of 4 seasons.
I can’t stand the traffic : (
Pricing:
- My Rod Stewart impersonation is only $50 per song! (plus $300m appearance fee)
- My Barry Manilow impersonation is $100 per song in addition the the $300 appearance fee.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jaygatesimpersonates.com
- Email: jay.gates@me.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jay.gates.16
Image Credit:
Rick Digiammarino, Seth Dominick, Tom Farrell
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
