If it wasn’t for the perseverance of and inclination to reinvent the sound of guitars in the early 1940’s, we wouldn’t know what would become of our present-day guitar heroes and guitar gods, so to speak. Tonie Bufete, is one such disciple in terms of Folk and Rock music in the country, during its heydays in the 1970’s.
“My inclination in music came from my mother and her siblings. They are really good singers”, declares Tonie. Born in Manila, his father worked in Esso in Pandacan back in the days when lots was offered in Balagtas area. His musical journey started when he was in elementary, he would willingly offer a song or two whenever there is a program in school singing “My Prayer” and “Twilight Time” by the Platters. “When the Association and Zombies songs flooded Manila airwaves i started to learn the guitar courtesy of my cousin Francis Albaniel who i joined my first taste of Japan in 1969 to 1970, i was only 15 years old then so my Father had to sign a parental consent for me to be able to travel”, marvels Tonie of his first gig.
Back home, after his Japan stint, Acid band was formed, the original members were Ricky Frias on percussions, Cesar Frias on drums, Willie Pineda on Keyboards, Tammy Marasigan on Bass and Tonie on lead guitar. They were regular performer every Saturday at “Stop, Look and Listen” in ABS CBN, hosted by Jeanne Young and Ricky Belmonte. The Acid Band was active from 1970 to 1972, when they were offered a regular gig at the Flames in Roxas Boulevard, but since he was still pursuing his studies plus Ricky Frias and his family moved to Guam in mid 70’s the band disbanded. But in 1978 Tonie Bufete formed a classical folk rock trio called “TNJ”. TNJ (ala CSNY for Crosby, Still, Nash & Young) stands for the acronym of the first names of the member of the trio namely Tonie Bufete, Noli Aurillo and Joey Montilla. “Folk houses were in bloom that time; Bodega, Hobbit House, Kola House, Spindle, International Pub, Shakey's, Bachus, My Fathers Moustache to name a few of the places, are some of the watering holes we have performed to”, quips Tonie. The trio also have graced some tv programs of Nora Aunor, German Moreno and other popular TV shows during that era.
“Freddie Aguilar's ‘Anak’ was enjoying a humongous following. Asin & Sino Band had just released their initial singles, respectively, when TNJ were also offered to record our original compositions," Ang Mundo" & "Kapalaran". But the trio disbanded abruptly. Everyone was in disbelief when suddenly we have to part ways in the peak of our popularity.” Laments Tonie, “Wala eh, hindi para sa amin yun time na yun.”
After this hiatus, Tonie occupied his time in venturing into different businesses, that would still be connected to live entertainment. He used to own a club in Manila that features live music. He also busied himself with other businesses and projects, but in doing so, this musical disciple still have the desires and drives to perform live for everyone.
Fast forward into today’s fast-paced lifestyle, Tonie and the rest of THE ACID BAND are back together again, romancing their first love; making music. This author had the opportunity to watch Tonie and The Acid Band live in a number of times, and believe me, there is no dull moment when they take the stage and perform cover of Santana and other Psychedelic songs. The PCR (Pinoy Classic Rock-a group musicians that was merged by Ben Yanto) served as the comeback vehicle for Tonie and the rest of Acid Band to display their brand of music. A yearly event that happens every January since 2002, PCR had showcased most of the countries musical geniuses in the 50's thru the 90's and have no plans of slowing down in the near future. But for the first time in almost two decades, the PCR have temporarily halted all live musical performances due to the pandemic.
Post Script: On a personal note, Tonie is a very good friend. He is so down to earth and almost always speaks to anyone, even the ones he doesn't know. That's why it's impossible not to like his persona. He have this aura that is so radiant, you could almost see him wearing a halo above his head. A lover of music and food, especially if the food is a helping of a heaped bowl of 'Dinuguan'. His two daughters have followed his footsteps in the music industry, and made a name of their own. We hope to see more of you Tonie, in the days to come when live music is possible.
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