Exclusive: Q&A with O.A.R.'s Jerry DePizzo on the Cleveland Cavaliers, LeBron & more
O.A.R. -- short for "Of A Revolution" -- formed in Maryland in 1996. The group's upcoming ninth studio album, The Mighty, will be released in the spring of 2019.
But before that happens, the five-piece band is hitting the road for a tour, which kicks off on November 15th at Cincinnati, Ohio's Taft Theatre; other upcoming dates include December 2nd at Long Island, New York's The Paramount, December 7th at New Jersey's Wellmont Theater, and December 15th at Washington D.C.'s The Anthem.
The members of O.A.R. -- which includes lead vocalist and guitarist Marc Roberge, guitarist Richard On, multi-instrumentalist Jerry DePizzo, bassist Benj Gershman and drummer Chris Culos -- are known to be big sports fans. In turn, while interviewing Jerry DePizzo, I threw in some questions about his history as a fan of Cleveland sports.
More on O.A.R. -- whose latest single "Miss You All The Time" has already gotten major radio airplay -- can be found online at www.liveoar.com.
Word has it that you are a big of all the Cleveland teams. When did you first become a fan of the Cavaliers?
Jerry DePizzo: I grew up in Youngstown. Cleveland teams were my "go to’s" when I was a kid. I live in Columbus. I’ve had many road trips up north to see some big games.
Do you have a favorite player on the Cavs?
Jerry DePizzo: LeBron is/was my guy. I heard whispers of him when he was filling high school gyms. I’m thankful I had a chance to see him evolve into the person he has become, and to have a great deal of that happen in Cleveland.
How do you think this season is going for the Cavs?
Jerry DePizzo: I think if the definition of success is to draft Zion #1, then its going great.
Are there any team you feel as passionately about as you do the Cavs?
Jerry DePizzo: I’ll always root for the Brownies.
Were you yourself ever a basketball player? A competitive athlete in other sports?
Jerry DePizzo: I took a “0” when it was basketball week in gym. The only thing I could do on a court is throw elbows. Rock & roll is a competitive sport. I’m pretty good at that.
The Mighty is your forthcoming album. How long did you spend making it?
Jerry DePizzo: “Spending" -- we are very busy wrapping up.
Do you have a favorite song on The Mighty?
Jerry DePizzo: “California” is one that really hits home for me. I appreciate its optimism.
What do the next few months look like for O.A.R.?
Jerry DePizzo: We will be playing a few more select shows in the next few weeks as well as finishing up music for The Mighty. Our new single “Miss You All The Time” is out at radio right now, so we are doing great things with that.
When not busy with music, how do you like to spend your free time?
Jerry DePizzo: If I’m ever not busy with music, I’ll let you know.
Is there something you wish more people knew about O.A.R.?
Jerry DePizzo: We have been a band since the 8th grade.
Finally, Jerry, any last words for the kids?
Jerry DePizzo: O-H!