Tony Mottola

Tony Mottola, a guitarist recognized above all for his wide-ranging solo recordings and session contributions on Enoch Light’s Command and Project 3 imprints, entered the world on April 18, 1918, in Kearny, New Jersey. He first took up the guitar at nine and shared high-school classes with jazz saxophonist Herbie Haymer, whose career ended prematurely, and with George Paxton, who later led his own band. Once he received his diploma, Mottola joined George Hall’s orchestra on the road and made his first appearance on record with the ensemble’s version of “Shine.”

The CBS radio studio orchestra engaged him in 1941, where his guitar supported artists ranging from Raymond Scott to Frank Sinatra. Through those broadcasts he also accompanied Perry Como, remaining Como’s regular guitarist for an extended period. At the same time, he drew attention for composing the original score for Yul Brynner’s television series Danger. Mottola’s debut album for Command, Mr. Big, appeared in 1959. When Light launched the Project 3 label in 1965, Mottola moved with him and took on the additional role of associate producer. During those years he also performed with Doc Severinsen’s Orchestra on NBC’s The Tonight Show.

Although Light passed away in 1978, Mottola stayed with Project 3 through 1983 while continuing to record and tour with Sinatra. That association with Sinatra lasted until Mottola himself retired in 1988. He died on August 9, 2004.