Frank Sanzo manages the 17th Street Guitar and World Music Store. A Tucson resident since 1993, Frank has been involved in music promotion since the early 1970s. From booking early country-rock bands to running an entertainment bar, his track led to booking acts such as Rick Danko and Buddy Cage in the '90s. He is working on a live compilation of Tucson bands for 17th Street Records, of which he is also general manager.
What was the first concert you ever saw?
Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels, at the Bushnell Memorial Hall in Hartford, Conn., in the mid-'60s. The lights, the crowd and the dancing "go-go" girls all led to a fascination with rock 'n' roll. Spider John Koerner was also on the bill. ... I think the ticket was $1.75.
What are you listening to these days?
Más o Menos String Band, Grams and Krieger, Matt Mitchell, and Bossa Rhythm Section, all recorded live at the store, are in current heavy rotation as I try to decide which tracks to include on a compilation of local music. Nationally, I am enjoying CDs by Fred Eaglesmith, the new Paul Simon, and Michael Franti and Spearhead's Yell Fire!
What was the first album you owned?
That would have been Meet the Beatles.
What artist, genre or musical trend does everyone seem to love, but you just don't get?
Lady Gaga.
What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?
The Who would be fun!
Musically speaking, what is your favorite guilty pleasure?
Old, live bootleg tapes, mistakes and all.
What song would you like to have played at your funeral?
I have a great version of "Keep on the Sunny Side," played by Rick Danko, Buddy Cage and Sredni Vollmer that would be perfect.
What band or artist changed your life, and how?
I was fortunate to meet Buddy Cage, steel player for New Riders of the Purple Sage, in the early '80s, and we've been friends ever since.
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
Waylon Jennings, Honky Tonk Heroes.
