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He is a man of many lives. Born in Pittsburgh, seasoned by California,and now rooted in Colorado, Scott Argiro—known to the music world as Argyro—has lived with melody in his veins since childhood. A charismatic singer-songwriter, a drummer’s drummer, and a leading man onscreen, he has captivated audiences not only with his songs, but with his presence—equal parts wit, warmth, and wonder. His music has found its way onto international airwaves and into films by acclaimed directors, while his face has lit up both commercials and holiday romances. Yet behind the spotlight and the glitter of his latest record, Glitterati, lies a man who still chases truth through sound, story, and soul. Tonight, we sit down with Scott Argiro—not just the artist, but the human being.
Scott, you’ve been writing and recording music for most of your life. If I asked that little boy in Pittsburgh what he dreamed of becoming,would he have said this —a singer, a drummer, a storyteller—or something entirely different?
I was very rhythmic from the time I was a kid, so I believe ‘drummer’ would be the primary dream back then. I was also very creative…always making-up short songs, poems and rhymes, not realizing that these ingredients (rhythm and rhyme) were laying the groundwork for songwriting. My parents were both school teachers who encouraged creative exploration, athletics and education, so I had the freedom to explore my creative side…so long as I always made the grade!
You’ve lived in Pittsburgh, California, and now Colorado. How have those places shaped not only your music but the man you’ve become?
Pittsburgh was an amazing town to be born and raised. The traditions, sports teams and emphasis on family values impacted me at an young age. I would say the landscapes of both California and Colorado influenced my music profoundly. Both places share a musical vibe…open skies, mountains, beaches…all of which play an integral part in my musical palette today.
Your latest record, “Glitterati”, is a very personal project—you played nearly every instrument on it. Do you see it more as a celebration of your independence or as a reflection of something more intimate, perhaps even vulnerable, within yourself?
I view these projects almost like painting (though I’m by no means a painter). Having the ability to play multiple instruments is like having a rich palette of colors to pull from in the studio. It’s a cathartic process to build each track beginning with drums, adding bass, pianos, keyboards, guitar & percussion until you’ve painted your soundscape…and I absolutely love the entire process. Damon Wood, former guitarist for James Brown, joined me on Glitterati and laid down all the guitar parts…which really took the project to the next sonic level.
You’ve had your songs featured in films by Joel Schumacher and Paul Lieberstein, and you’ve acted in romantic holiday comedies. Between music and film, where do you feel most yourself—on stage, behind a drum kit, or in front of the camera?
Funny, I see myself primarily as a drummer who has evolved and adopted some other skills. The ability to ‘feel’ music through drumming as well as manifest melodies has been instrumental to songwriting. Some recent film reviewers of my acting performances surprisingly commended my rhythm in delivering lines within movie scenes. SO, I believe my drumming abilities have served me well and may function as foundation for the rest (see there, drummers are more valuable than you might have thought!).
You are often described as “charismatic” and “irreverent.” But when the stage lights go out and you’re alone, what words would you use to describe yourself?
I pride myself on being a family man, husband and dad. I’m married to a beautiful, amazing wife and have been blessed with two smart & talented kids. A word that would probably best describe me would be disciplined. I’m rather obsessive about accomplishing goals, adhering to daily schedules…business meetings, workouts, reading, creating etc. Also, having success as a business leader has provided me the flexibility to pursue creative endeavors alongside my professional responsibilities. So yes, I think discipline as well as an unrelenting drive & passion would be words to best describe me.
Your sound has been compared to John Mayer, Rob Thomas, and even Chris Isaak. But who, deep down, do you feel is your truest musical kindred spirit—the artist who most mirrors your soul?
I wouldn’t be able to identify one single artist…though Brian Wilson as well as Lennon-McCartney would certainly be on my list of inspirations. Being a drummer who plays other instruments, I’ve been influenced by a vast array of music. I guess I’ve drawn pieces of inspiration from many amazing artists and somehow found a niche which most excites me.
You’ve worn so many hats—musician, actor, multi-instrumentalist,businessman. When people hear the name “Argyro”, what do you hope they feel or remember?
I would want to be remembered as someone who pushes limits, believes in what’s possible and works relentlessly to achieve personal goals.
And finally, Scott, you’ve built a career of resilience and reinvention. If today were the last interview you ever gave, what is the one truth about yourself that you’d want the world to know?
You can have success and achieve many milestones while still being kind to others.
