“Authenticity with a beat and a hook”

Original Pop-Rock in San Diego

Bio

Let me be honest, it would be easy to have ChatGPT write some lame sounding bio. I'm not going to do that. 

I create thoughtful, uplifting, and fun pop-rock music, blending memorable hooks with danceable beats and authentic storytelling. I hope to connect with each audience through humor, hope, resilience, and shared human experiences.

I draw inspiration from artists like Jason Mraz and Bruno Mars, as well as a lifetime of service as an Air Force Pararescueman, police officer (which I hated), and psychiatric physician assistant, bringing a unique perspective to songwriting. My songs explore everything from love and adventure to grief, growth, and self-discovery, with emphasis on presence and joy in everyday life.

After decades of performing cover music, I challenged myself to write and record one original song every week for an entire year. It was a truly transformative experience, helping me discover my own artistic voice, launching a new chapter as a dedicated songwriter.

Whether performing intimate acoustic sets or sharing the stage with The Tan Lines, I strive to deliver an engaging live experience built on positive energy, genuine storytelling, and songs that leave audiences moving and smiling. My performances invite listeners to laugh, reflect, sing along, dance, and connect through our common humanity.

As I continue to build momentum through live performances, media appearances, and new releases, establishing myself as one of San Diego's emerging singer-songwriters, I most importantly strive to be an artist whose music reminds us that even life's most challenging moments can be met with hope, humor, and a great chorus.

career highlights

  • Released Debut EP, Pilot (September 21, 2025)
  • Wrote and recorded one original song every week for an entire year
  • Successfully transitioned from longtime cover performer to original singer-songwriter
  • Performed an all-original show at Winston's Ocean Beach
  • Featured artist on the Music Makers San Diego Podcast
  • Performed at Dos Palmas Cafe during Adams Ave Unplugged
  • Performs original music with his band The Tan Lines, and a mix of covers and originals solo. 

praise:

His songs range from lighthearted to heartfelt. It's storytelling on topics and themes that any listener can relate to.” - Gary Lee - San Diego Music Makers Podcast
Great vocals, great songwriting, great energy. Stop scrolling and check out Steve Skiano” - Robert Martinez, Studio Manager at Wildcat Studios
It was a pleasure working with Steve on his EP. He has a strong and intuitive musical compass, along with a humorous sense of self-reflection that enables him to write fun, hooky, and relatable songs.” - Nate Kohrs, Producer

Videos

photos

Steve Skiano - lead vocal/rhythm guitar, songwriter

Patrick Wheyland - lead guitar

Gordon Kelly - drums

Tony Ciulla - bass guitar

Audio

Previous events

Steve featured at The Flim Flam Revue!

 —  —

Whistle Stop Bar - south park, 2236 Fern St., San Diego, CA 92104

GrampaDrew’s monthly songwriter-fest of original roots and American music! Come enjoy spontaneous harmonies, lots of instruments, and boot shakin’ rhythms, every 1st Saturday of the month at Whistle Stop! 5 PM // FREE

Share

Steve Skiano and The Tan Lines - live!

Crown Point Park - Missioin Bay (just south of the basketball courts), San Diego

Part of the monthly Full Moon Fest - a wonderful community event with music, art, community, nature, and connection.

Suggested donation - $10-$20

Share

Available For:

  • 30-60 min full band original show
  • Up to 3 hour solo acoustic act - covers and originals
  • Listening rooms
  • Festivals
  • House concerts
  • Breweries/wineries
  • Private events
  • Corporate functions
  • Community events
  • Podcast and media appearances

Inquiries