On the show, Tony spoke about how he was in hospital for a whole seven months and during that period, his family were moving home, and all his music had been stored away. The accident had left Tony with a lot of frustration as he spent those many months waiting to get well enough to get home and back to his music again. When he eventually got home at the end of March 2023, it only took him 2 months until he picked up his guitar again. Due to the loss of function in his left hand, Tony had to re-learn guitar with just his right which he described to be quite difficult but as practice is part of being a musician, he was used to it and with time he adapted. Although the stroke was a horrible experience for not only Tony, but also his family, he did say that some good came from it. Tony believes that his setback has provided him with an even stronger drive to push forward in his career and make the most of his passion no matter what.

Last Saturday Tony played his first charity gig with his close friend Simon McFadden at the Tooth & Claw to raise money for The Oxygen Works. Located on Burnett Road, Inverness, The Oxygen Works were a crucial part of Tony’s rehabilitation. Tony explained that physiotherapy and oxygen therapy helped him a great deal, especially in getting his voice back. The Oxygen Works is made up of a lovely community of people and provides an accessible gym which is great for people in recovery. Not only did The Oxygen Works help Tony but our presenter Aaron also opened up about his them helping his daughter Grace when she was released from hospital on home oxygen. Tonys' gig ultimately raised a total of £664 and he is more than pleased to be getting back into what he loves as well as showing his appreciation for the people who helped him.

Upon asking Tony about how he started playing music as well as his inspiration, he told us he started playing at around 10/11 years old after his dad bought himself a guitar which he ultimately didn’t use, leaving it up to Tony himself to take up the hobby in his dad’s place. His musical inspiration is varied; however, he explained that his dad liked The Beatles, and his mother was more of a Led Zepplin fan, two bands which are now reflected in his own music. When asked what his most memorable music experience was, Tony said Glastonbury 1992.

Tony’s current plans are to work on more material, specifically writing his own songs again as he tells us he’s mainly been doing covers.

Find out more about The Oxygen Works: The Oxygen Works | Providing Oxygen Therapy & Support Follow Tony and his story: https://www.facebook.com/tonyromainemusic

Written by Olivia Price

You can listen to the full interview on our Youtube channel.