Legend: an extremely famous or notorious person, especially in a field. This is one of the definitions I found of legend and if you ask me this fits Tony Casa to a “T”. I bet we could do six degrees of Tony Casa and it would work, as he casts a huge shadow over the city of Columbus. Be it with his band Zoo Trippin’ or Tony just being Tony, he is known throughout this city. So, it is no surprise to me that he would be the one to do a festival such as Columbus Covers Columbus.

TUNED UP: What made you want to do an event like this?

Tony Casa: I wanted to prove the haters wrong. I saw a handful of people in the city that did nothing but gripe about the scene and how awful it is. That confused the shit out of me. We have so much love and talent in this scene. And its an inclusive community. More so every year with events like Grrls Rock and Melanincholy Festival. So, I wanted to showcase that spirit. I love the feeling of another band telling us that they are covering us. I also love being able to showcase our (Zoo Trippin’) versions of the songs by the other local acts that inspire us. So, when I had the idea, I feel like it was a perfect chaser to the negativity floating around the city. Not that there’s a lot of those negative cats around. Regardless, I hope this festival does something to change their minds about the scene.

TUNED UP: Are there any covers you are hoping to hear?

Tony Casa: I’m really into hearing the covers by bands that are no longer playing actively. Like Phantods, Forest and the Evergreens, Stretch Lefty, The Skashank Redemption, and Total Navajo.

TUNED UP: We all know of the Promowest Venues and Ace of Cups and Rumba, but what are some lesser known venues that you enjoy?

Tony Casa: I was always a big fan of Scarlet and Grey Cafe and Ruby Tuesdays Live. They brought us in when we started out. They kind of raised us from the Pirates of the Scioto, all the way through Zoo Trippin’. It’s too bad S&G is no more. Luckily there still awesome sounds coming out of Ruby’s though!

TUNED UP: Who are some local act that our readers should be listening to?

Tony Casa: Def check out newer acts like Devin XO, wyd, Courtney from Work, Cousin Simple, you know that new new!

TUNED UP: What act(s) are you most excited to see at this festival?

Tony Casa: I’m mostly excited to watch the comedians. I just got back into the comedy scene recently, and I feel like I’ve seriously been missing out on that. These are dark times all over the world. Laughs are needed!

TUNED UP: Are you wanting this to be annual event?

Tony Casa: This will absolutely be an annual event. bigger and better every year. Next year however, I’m going to build a team earlier! Without the help I’ve gotten from my friends over the past month, I’d be lost!

TUNED UP: Zoo Trippin’ released an amazing album, Purple, last year. What is next for you guys?

Tony Casa: Next for ZT is a show break where we will be dialing back out local/tour gigs and focus more on writing and recording. We will be having a few different releases this year. First will be our second B-sides collection. Then a super secret thing that also showcases how awesome this city is. Then polishing it off with a brand new ep with our new members. It’s going to be dank.

TUNED UP: If you could induct an Ohio Musician into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, who would it be?

Tony Casa: That’s a tough question. I’d say one of the seasoned vets that I learned from. Someone like Andy Shaw, George Berry, or Jon Elliot.

TUNED UP: Do you think you will remove your shirt during Zoo Trippin’s set?

Tony Casa: idk what you’re talking about.

TUNED UP: What is your favorite winter beverage?

Tony Casa: I’ve always been a fan of whiskey. But I’m trying to drink less. So, I picked up coffee, but that makes me nervous and ill. Now I think I just drink water. because its safe.

TUNED UP: What is your favorite winter activity?

Tony Casa: Currently my fav winter activity is sitting by the fire with Nick Offerman.

TUNED UP: Do you want to build a snowman?

Tony Casa: ask Lynn…