Dean Esposito, or Dino, as he would later be known as, probably has some of the most humble history that I've seen in a long time. He began pursuing his musical interests when his parents moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. It was here that he enrolled in college, earning a bachelor's degree in communications and broadcasting.
From there, he worked at several radio stations as a DJ, moving up from local college radio to Nevada's Power 9, and eventually, KCEP, Las Vegas where he was promoted to Program Director. During this time, he also worked at local clubs in the evenings, serving as DJ.
It was around this time that he also became the lead singer for the group Esquire, but he would ultimately decide to go solo, and release his first single, Summergirls, through the independent label, L.D. Records. This would lead to a contract with 4th & B'way/Island/PolyGram Records, who would release his debut album, 24/7 in 1989.
While the album was mildly successful, his biggest upswing came from the opportunity to open for New Kids On The Block in the summer of '89. This helped push his debut album to the number thirty-nine spot, certifying it gold in the process.
I used to have a pal named Ray Hunt in Bend, Oregon, and I believe it was him who introduced me to the single, Summergirls. What's interesting about the track, is while I heard it once all the way back then, I hadn't heard it since. As such, it was interesting that it stayed so ingrained in my mind as I was continuing to cross albums off my want list in 2022.
As I listened to 24/7, there was a definite dance vibe to it, and while it was catchy and toe tapping fun, it didn't really resonate with me in a big way. Not enough so to start grabbing tunes for my shuffle list, anyway.
I was surprised to find the tune, I Like It, on the album because this was one I had forgotten about over the years. Quite honestly, I thought it was a 90's song.
At the price of $1.50, I walked away with two track, I Like It, and Summergirls, and as far as I'm concerned, those two songs provide the buy in value that I got out of it. It's quite honestly one of the reasons I continue to support physical media. Not only is it far cheaper than digital, but you get to own it.
As for Dino, he went on to release two additional albums, but by 1993 stepped out of the limelight. While not much is known about where he is these days, shortly after ending his solo career, he worked behind the scenes as a writer and producer for Tonya Mitchell, Paul Taylor, Jordan Knight, Walter Beasley, Sheena Easton, and Joanna Pacitti.
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Disclaimer: They Toy Box does not endorse or contribute to piracy. Retro Spins posts are intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. None of the music discussed here is available for sale, downloading or distribution.
THIS WEEK ON THE CHARTS
February 12, 1983
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