Extreme Dream is an award-winning band consisting of Tony Cestaro (Guitarist, Songwriter), Shaun Tique (Vocalist, Guitarist, Lead Keyboardist, Songwriter) with additional vocals by Thereasa Arkels (‘Rain’, ‘The Cries of the Children’) and Sue Richel (‘Heaven is the Place of Eternal Living’). Studio musicians include Tony Ciano (drums, percussion) and Scott Stein (saxaphone, flute). Critics have described Tonys' songs as meaningful, deep and emotional with a message behind every song. After Shaun’s unfortunate passing, Tony has managed to keep the Extreme Dream alive, even going on to become an award-winning published poet. Reporter Lily Clark caught up with Tony recently to learn more about this new artist and his plans for the future.

LILY: When did you first discover your love of music?
TONY: From a very early age, maybe 5 or 6, I was drawn to the radio. I loved all the instruments, melodies and vocals. I found myself listening to the words of the songs and was intrigued by the way everything meshed together.

LILY: Your song 'Rain' has been a big hit on radio for its fourth straight month. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
TONY: It was great hearing my song on the radio. It was something that I've always wanted. The feeling of accomplishment was overwhelming, and it made me proud!

LILY: What was the inspiration behind 'Rain'?
TONY: It started as a creative writing assignment when I was in college. I had to write something that dealt with the weather. I chose rain because it reminded me of teardrops. I used the personal experience of a break up that I was going through at that time, and put those feelings into words. That became the song.

LILY: Would you say that the mood of your other songs is in the same vein as 'Rain'?
TONY: No. All my lyrics are different, which made the music or vibe of the song different.

LILY: How would you characterize yourself as a musician? (ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving...)
TONY: Down-to-earth sounds good. Never really thought about it (smiles).

LILY: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
TONY: My Uncle Sal wrote lyrics back in the Big Band Era. Maybe that's where I got it from.

LILY: What do you find most rewarding about being a musician? What do you find most challenging?
TONY: The rewarding part is being able to have my work recorded, brought to light and getting feedback from people who hear it. Also, getting your music to the right people- publishers, labels, licensing, music supervisors, music libraries, etc.).

LILY: Who are your role models in music?
TONY: Harry Chapin, Journey, Maroon 5, Fleetwood Mac (the Buckingham/Nicks years) and Bon Jovi. A little bit of all genres influence me.

LILY: What advice would you give to young, aspiring musicians out there who are unsure and need guidance?
TONY: Never let anyone tell you that you can't do something. If you love what you are doing musically, keep at it. Perfect your craft. There is always something new to learn.

LILY: What's next for Extreme Dream? Is there a new single in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
TONY: Just finished a new CD titled ‘Tranquility’. For this CD, I collaborated with four other songwriters from around the Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee areas. Other songs from the Extreme Dream CD on other radio stations are ‘Winter's Calling’, ‘You'll Be In My Dreams’, ‘One In A Million’, ‘Rape The Land’, and ‘Heaven Is A Place Of Eternal Living’.

LILY: Excellent! I look forward to hearing it! Thank you for taking time out to share you story with me. I wish you continued success and good luck!

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