Randy Clamons
The Man in the Mural
Randy Clamons was the heart and soul of Tucson’s music community. As a founder and frontman of Top Dead Center, Randy spent decades bringing people together through music, laughter, and genuine friendship. Whether performing on stage, encouraging local musicians, or welcoming newcomers into the scene, he had a rare gift for making everyone feel like they belonged.
More than a musician, Randy became a symbol of the close-knit community he helped create. His kindness, authenticity, and unwavering support for others left a lasting impact on countless lives. Though he passed away in 2019, his legacy continues through the music, memories, friendships, and community spirit he inspired—celebrated today by the Randy Clamons Memorial Mural and the people who continue to share his story.
Video Spotlight
The “Duke And Cat Show” is a public access TV program which featured the band Top Dead Center as their musical guest tonight at 8pm on November 4, 2011. This video shows the band performing “The Way It Is” and “Too Slow,” both songs written by TDC leader/vocalist/guitarist Randy Clamons. If you’d like to see the TV broadcast in its entirety, check out Access Tucson’s website for more information: http://www.accesstucson.org/
Update: John Gatty (keyboards) died on April 27, 2012 of pancreatic cancer at age fifty; Michael Begala (lead guitar) died of natural causes on August 1, 2013, (Jerry Garcia’s birthday, as he predicted), at age 59.
The Duke and Cat Show is produced and directed by Duke Standberry and Catherine “Cat” Vigil. I’d like to thank Cat for giving me permission to shoot video of portions of the live broadcast.
Original Top Dead Center Members:
Randy Clamons – Guitar, Lead Vocals | Michael Begala – Guitar, Lead Vocals | John Gatty – Keyboards, Vocals | Stephen James – Bass, Vocals | Brian Barbarisi – Drums | Ray Clamons – Drums
Remembering The Man in The Mural
The Man in the Mural documentary is an ongoing series that explores the story behind the Randy Clamons memorial mural and the community that continues to grow around it. More than a single film, it is a work in progress and a passion project—capturing interviews, memories, music, and moments as they unfold over time.
Alongside honoring Randy’s legacy, the project also highlights the living spirit of the Tucson music community, the friendships formed through it, and the ongoing efforts to give back through initiatives like the food drive. It is a continuing story of connection, creativity, and community care—meant to evolve as the mural and the people behind it continue to grow.
Project Update
The Man in the Mural documentary is currently in its early production stage. We are actively gathering interviews, archival photos, and video footage that help tell the story of Randy Clamons, Top Dead Center, and the community that continues to grow around the mural.
Episode One is now in development and will focus on the origins of the mural and the people who helped bring it to life. In the meantime, we are continuing to meet with community members, collect stories, and document ongoing events connected to Randy’s legacy and the Tucson music scene.
This is a living project, and we’ll continue sharing updates as the story unfolds.
Stories from Friends & Family
Randy’s impact didn’t end with his music—it lives on in the memories shared by the people who knew him best. This space is dedicated to written stories, photos, and personal reflections from friends, family, and members of the community.
Instead of only capturing interviews on video, we also welcome written submissions that will be included on this page. Every memory helps build a fuller picture of who Randy was and what he meant to so many people.
Share Your Randy Story:
If you have a memory, photo, video, or moment you’d like to contribute, we invite you to be part of this living archive. Your story helps keep his legacy alive and growing.
- Use the comment form below to share your written story.
- Send your photo’s with captions to erika@tucsonlocalbands.com. She’ll upload and include them in our growing gallery.