The Tony Newton TNT Power Trio: A Fusion of Legends
The Tony Newton TNT Power Trio, formed in 2024, unites three musical powerhouses: the legendary Hollywood Akademia “HALL OF FAME” bassist, composer-songwriter, and producer Tony Newton, guitar virtuoso Tracey “Spacey-T” Singleton, and powerhouse drummer Barry Chenault, the driving force behind the TNT Power Trio’s rhythm section.
This dynamic ensemble embodies a convergence of talent, experience, and innovation, promising a musical experience that transcends genres and generations.
Tony Newton: The Maestro’s Enduring Legacy
Affectionately known as “Maestro,” Tony Newton’s career is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering passion for music. From his early days as a child prodigy in Detroit to his current status as a “Hall Of Fame” celebrated and legendary artist, his journey has been a symphony of creativity and innovation.
Detroit Roots and Motown Glory: Born and raised in the musical hotbed of Detroit, Newton’s musical journey began at the tender age of seven with the piano. By thirteen, he was already a seasoned professional, gracing the stages of Detroit’s blues clubs alongside icons like John Lee Hooker, T-Bone Walker, and Little Walter. At eighteen, his extraordinary talent caught the eye of Motown executive Hank Cosby, leading him to replace the legendary James Jamerson as the touring bassist for Smokey Robinson and the Miracles. He quickly rose to become the Miracles’ Music Director, showcasing his deep understanding of musical arrangements.
“Baby Funk Brother” and Beyond: As the youngest member of Motown’s esteemed Funk Brothers, Newton earned the moniker “the baby funk brother.” He toured with a who’s who of Motown legends, including Diana Ross and the Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Four Tops, The Temptations, and The Spinners. His signature bass lines can be heard on countless Motown hits, shaping the sound of a generation.
Genre-Defying Innovation: Newton’s musical journey extended far beyond Motown. He became a sought-after session player, lending his talents to recordings by artists like Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, and Little Richard. He co-founded the groundbreaking jazz-rock fusion group The Tony Williams New Lifetime, pushing the boundaries of musical complexity with his compositions “Snake Oil” and “Red Alert.” His versatility is further showcased in his collaboration with Gary Moore in the British hard rock group.
A Multifaceted Renaissance Man: Beyond music, Newton has established himself as an author, filmmaker, inventor, entrepreneur, and educator. He has authored seventeen books, directed the movie Mars Quest and the award-winning docu-musical TNT Xtreme, and developed numerous software and hardware products. His induction into the Hollywood Music Akademia “Hall of Fame” in 2024 is a testament to his enduring impact on the music world.
Tracey “Spacey-T” Singleton: The Guitar Virtuoso
Tracey “Spacey-T” Singleton, the TNT Power Trio’s guitarist, is a multi-instrumentalist with a wealth of experience spanning diverse genres and collaborations.
From Sound Barrier to Fishbone: Singleton’s career began in the 1980s LA Metal Scene as a founding member of Sound Barrier, the first all-Black heavy metal band to be signed to a major label (MCA Records). He later joined the renowned alternative rock band Fishbone as lead guitarist.
Collaborations with Legends: Singleton’s musical journey is marked by collaborations with legendary artists like Eddie Hazel of Funkadelic, Bonnie Pointer of The Pointer Sisters, Sly & Freddie Stone, Billy Bass Nelson, Mothers Finest, H.R. of Bad Brains, Mandrill, Mallia Franklin, Talib Kweli, Guitar Shorty, and Dug Pinnick of King’s X. His guitar work can be heard in rock documentaries like Electric Purgatory, Everyday Sunshine: The Fishbone Story, Inside Metal: The Pioneers of LA Hard Rock and Metal, and The Original Charvel Gang.
Dedicated Educator: Beyond his performance career, Singleton has dedicated fifteen years to teaching music to children in Los Angeles. His commitment to nurturing young talent has earned him recognition from the LA City Council and an eleven-year grant from the California Arts Council. He is currently the 8-string guitarist for the hard rock duo Praise the Dead, working on their follow-up EP, The Deep.
Barry Chenault: The Driving Force
Barry Chenault, the driving force behind the TNT Power Trio’s rhythm section, is a veteran musician with over forty years of experience.
An Extremely Versatile and Dynamic Drummer: Chenault’s drumming style is characterized by creativity, power, versatility, and finesse. He possesses an extensive background in performance and composition, spanning a broad range of musical styles.
From P-Funk to the Gap Band: Chenault has toured and recorded with a diverse array of artists, including George Clinton & Parliament-Funkadelic, The Gap Band, Rose Royce, Donna Summer, Mallia Franklin, Dawn Silva, The Brides of Funkenstein, Chris Standring, Haute Chile, Victor Orlando, Derek Bardo, Triple Bueno, and Zoom. His drumming can be heard on multi-platinum movie soundtracks like Judgement Night and Another Body Murder.
The Creative Force Behind Olio: Chenault is also currently a member of and the creative force behind the California rock trio Olio.
The Tony Newton TNT Power Trio: A New Chapter
The Tony Newton TNT Power Trio represents a new chapter in Newton’s illustrious career. Bringing together the exceptional talents of Singleton and Chenault, this power trio promises a musical experience that is both familiar and groundbreaking. Their combined experience and mastery of their respective instruments, coupled with Newton’s visionary leadership, create a unique blend of funk, rock, blues, and fusion. The Tony Newton TNT Power Trio is a testament to the enduring power of musical collaboration and innovation, and audiences worldwide eagerly listen to the sonic tapestry they weave together.
