My Big Fat Greek Wedding Singer
Tuesday, December 1st, 2009
By Madison Massey.
Don’t let the title of this one fool you. He does do weddings, he is all Greek, but the man is definitely easy on the eyes! Constantine Varazo is a triple threat working the Atlanta entertainment circuit. An accomplished actor, model, and singer, Varazo relocated to our city from Pensacola, Florida in 2002 to polish his acting focus. However, he came to find himself submerged in this city’s popular independent music scene. Now, he is a commanding force on the small stage. I took in an open mic night hosted by the singer at a relaxed bar and lounge located in the heart of downtown on Peachtree Street. I left that evening satisfied by the live sets, but more so, surprised when I discovered that the musician picked up the guitar merely one year ago, and plays a bluesy harmonica, to boot.
… he came to find himself submerged in this city’s popular independent music scene …
Constantine performs a blend of top 40, Motown and classic rock covers, and accompanied on acoustic guitar by the very talented Rob Grater, the pair have a unique way of making the song’s “their own”. I was especially impressed with a version of Gnarls Barkley, “Crazy”, in which the use of a dropped tempo, along with the acoustic accompaniment, gave a haunting nuance to the familiar hit. A cover of U2’s, “One”, also went over well with me, as it is one of my personal favorites. The great thing about an open mic night is that it displays an array of other musical talents from around the metro area. That particular evening showcased an amazing mandolin player, an acoustic bass and guitar duo, and a young guitar and keyboard combo. Therefore, this is a call to all aspiring Atlanta musicians to check out Constantine’s open mic and show your skills, every Tuesday night from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Barley’s, which is located at 338 Peachtree Street, Atlanta 30309.
… great thing about an open mic night is that it displays an array of other musical talents from around the metro area …
Varazo puts his musical stamp on other venues across the city, as well. In a show designed for customized corporate entertainment, i.e. Christmas parties, Constantine and his band 5th Element put on a rock history tribute, complete with costume changes. The performance highlights rock n’ roll’s progression, from the era of the Beatles, Elvis, and Little Richard up through current acts, like the Foo Fighters and U2. This blend of acting and musical performance is a rare treat to see outside of the Fox Theater. During our interview, Constantine sweetly reminded me, “My goal in music is to have fun and entertain the audience, not to promote my own agenda of stardom.” Upon hearing this humble side of the artist, it came as no surprise for me to learn that he got his start singing in his family’s church choir.
… blend of acting and musical performance … a rare treat … outside of the Fox Theater …
Finding Mr. Varazo’s displays of talent around town is not difficult. He is constantly finding new gigs and auditions, an entertainer for hire, so to speak. You can catch an early showing of his acoustic duo at St. Angelo’s Pizza off of South Atlanta Road in Smyrna on December 27th from 5:30 to 8:30. To find further info, future performance dates, or if you’re just in need of a band to play your wedding, then look him up at constantinevarazo.com or 5thelemententertainment.com.
Tags: acoustic bass, acoustic guitar, acting, actor, Atlanta, Atlanta downtown, Atlanta metro area, bar, Barley’s, classic rock, Constantine Varazo, Gnarls Barkley, Gnarls Barkley Crazy, Greek, guitar, harmonica, independent music, independent music scene, live music, lounge, Madison Massey, mandolin, model, Motown, music, musicians, open mic, open mic night, Peachtree Street, Rob Grater, singer, singers, small stage, top 40, U2, U2 One, Wedding, wedding bands, wedding singer, weddings
More articles by Madison Massey
Yes, this article sums up Constantine perfectly. I’ve known him for many, many years and I know how special he really is. And, yes, he is very easy on the eyes for sure. He can come by and sing at my party any time. It’s nice to know that he is finally getting the recognition he deserves.
Too cool….wish I could come to see ya in smyrna….that’s where I grew up ? glad to see you getting the recognition you no doubt deserve…keep it up!
hey luv!!!!
i’m so proud of you.
YOU ROCK!!!
LUV YA!
Excellent article that sums up a wonderful, charismatic, charming, accomplished, and talented person.
I got to meet Constantine when I sat in at an open mic he hosted. I can say right off the bat, he has charisma to spare! You notice it when he walks in the room. He’s meant to be in front of the camera or behind a microphone! I agree with everyone’s comments….a very talented guy!
Constantine is a force of nature… multi-talented and so hard working… and real easy on the eyes.
couldent have said it any better myself, Constantine is one of the reasons Atl music scene is getting so good. He definetely knows how to put on a great show!
Excellent article! Sums up Constantine perfectly. He’s so talented and an incredibly hard worker. I’ve hired him many times for my entertainment company and he’s excellent.
What amazes me about Constantine is how hard he works to get every detail of the “gig” done and done right. He’s very dedicated to his craft.
He’s also a great dad, which it seems no one has mentioned yet.
I love you Daddy!
<3 your favorite daughter ;]
Tino: Nice article…. You sing like a bird and it is so much fun to know the Gold Bond spokeman. Keep on rockin in the free world!!
The man is an all around entertainer!! He’s definitely off the beaten path of traditional(somewhat boring) wedding singers. Having seen Tino perform many times in many different arenas you will be highly entertained no matter the facet in which you enjoy his talents!
Great article! Sums up what I’ve seen about this guy. Down to earth, regular guy with great looks and great talent. Been to open mic nite too! Those who aren’t shy about getting up there should check it out and bring their own audience! Sing to me anytime…
Thank you Madison. I am very happy to have met you. I work hard to do everything I do well and it really helps to have some positive feedback. Thank you again. I love you article on Field Good also!!! You Rock!!!
HELLO THERE CUZ! WOW I am well impressed! I was doing that SCENE OVER 20YRS AGO! FANTASTIC! The best thing about us Greek like a great wine we age so beautifully & fills us with confidence persistence it takes to get where we want & what we want to do!
I LOVE YOU!I just did a Great night @ the MUSIC ROOM DUBAI w my renditions of Tina Turner Janis Joplin & just some good old funky Blues! I cannot wait to see you doing your stuff CUZ!I listen to your CD.every morning religiously!It’s so cool to see you doing your thing & getting the recognition you deserve….just keep on keepin on!From here in the UAE!Your cousin ANDREA BROWN/Little Mache!XOXO
My friend Tino, congratulation. I wish you success …
Osmar
Besides being the talent expressed in this article, Tino is a great person with an even greater heart. He is also very cool to be around. Good luck to ya, Tino!