Photo: Leslie-Anne Snipes
Get ready for the newest act in performance-based theatrical pop music: BONAVEGA! Just who or what is BONAVEGA? (We’re glad you asked.)
BONAVEGA
BONAVEGA is a Los Angeles, California-based singer/songwriter, and performance artist. According to a recent email, he is reportedly the product of an "oppressive religious upbringing" and believes he is also the result of “a ‘square’ objectifying society.” He started “pushing the limits immediately” in the Hollywood music scene.
He met musician, songwriter and Beverly Hits Studios founder Michael McGehee. The two teamed up to put out a number of EPs and singles. Their work caught the ear of Stefan Litrownik (Boyz II Men, One Direction, Andy Grammer).
BONAVEGA’s signature sound
BONAVEGA was soon working with the video production team named PWNR to produce material with an obvious element of “retro nostalgia with a twist.” His music is said to be inspired by an assortment of other acts including (but not necessarily limited to) David Bowie, Duran Duran, Led Zeppelin, Queen, Talking Heads, Reggie Watts, and The Screaming Headless Torsos. By 2015 his sound had gelled and sources say he “had established himself . . . as the new look and sound of performance-based, Avant Glam-Rock music.”
While working in his home studio, BONAVEGA concentrates “on entertainment” when he writes his songs. According to his email, he focuses on subjects and ideas that he notes “are very relatable to the stifled diva inside us all.” While some sources claim he is ostentatious and gaudy, BONAVEGA feels his intentions are more than just the usual "song and dance.”
The subjects of his songs include “corruption in the church and . . . bigotry” which he mocks with his version of “homo-erotic, dance moves.” His songs and live performances are said to be criticized by both “the high society music industry and religious advocates.” Like many who came before him, he also couldn't care less about “fitting in” and believes he is the result of “a ‘square’ objectifying society.”
Just last year BONAVEGA dropped his first totally self-produced platter titled Auto Body Fixation. The release includes ingredients drawn from multiple music genres in hopes that the disc will remain relevant in an “ever-changing musical climate.” Each cut is unrelated to the previous piece that reveals his vaunted “overly-confident out of the box” perspective on both life and music and possibly to offer a more accurate sample of his talents.
BONAVEGA is making plans for future premieres, festivals, and tours. He urges his fans to be on the lookout for future news and events. In conclusion, he adds: “Take it off your mind… and take it to the floor."
Special Note: Those interested in seeing BONAVEGA perform live can catch him on September 12, 2018, at the Eastside Showroom located at 1300 South Brand Boulevard. Curtain time and further details to be announced.