Fairview Park's Rock and Roll Hair Designer: An Interview With George Yunis

George Yunis is a man of many talents. He is an icon in the world of Rock and Roll and a hair wizard at Fusions Salon and Spa in Fairview Park. Loved by many from all generations, George knows how to give his passion on the stage and on the salon floor. I had the honor and pleasure of speaking with George in an exclusive interview.

How long have you been in Cleveland?

I’ve lived here all of my life and I love it, but it's a damp town. I always wear a scarf around my neck, even in the summer. As a singer, I need to protect my vocal cords.

Do you "warm up" before a gig?

Yes. I learned vocal techniques and a warm-up method from one of my vocal coaches. Mental preparation also goes along with warming up and getting focused.  

How did you get started in the music business? Who inspired you?

My dad, who was from Brazil, was an orchestra leader, a trumpet player, a lead vocalist and an actor. He taught himself music. My sister Marti was my other inspiration. She was into Motown and some obscure artists such as Timi Yuro, one of the first blue-eyed soul stylists of the rock era. We didn’t have money for music lessons, so my dad was my teacher. I learned notes on a paper piano. After I got a guitar, I found my way to pop music, contemporary music, rock-theater, and some musicals as well. I am a singer first and, although I am very versatile, I think singers of my age get type-cast in rock.

How did you get into your first band?

It was a neighborhood thing. Everybody from my brother-in-law to the next door neighbor was in a band. My brother, Mike, played drums. The band began with folk music and evolved into a little rock combo. Our heroes were the Beatles and the Monkeys.

Have you written and recorded any of your own songs?

I’ve recorded throughout my life. In the beginning, it was with my friends in little home studios. My first “real label” record was a song I co-wrote, “Just Another Day,” with the band Champion. That wound up on the Billboard Chart of radio stations. Recently, I made a CD with the band BMZY. I wrote one of the songs on the album.

How do you think the venues have changed over the years as far as playing, crowds, bookings, etc.?

I love singing and dancing on stage with people who really want to be part of the music. However, in today's business, I can’t always do that. Bands are hired for who they are and they are expected to do all the work. The music itself has changed dramatically too - there is not much “relatable” music. People don’t come out to dance unless it's to classic rock music.  The clubs want music that everyone can relate to, but heavy metal thrash or screaming shriek music doesn’t do the trick.  Music from my era brings people to their feet; everyone knows the lyrics. In contrast, the new music - rap or fast-paced music - makes it hard for the crowd to participate.

Your current band is That 80s Band. Are you doing other projects?

I sing with That 80s Band and another band called the Time Travellers, a tribute band to the Moody Blues. I’ve come to appreciate the movement and 4-part harmonies of this great band. To enjoy the full rock/orchestra style of the Moody Blues, Time Traveller sometimes performs with a city’s orchestra.

How did you get started in hairstyling?

My parents were both stylists. I started in the craft when I did the hair of the Champion band members.  My parents encouraged me to get a license, so that I would always have money in my pocket. I am very glad that I did. I made the transition from fulltime band member to fulltime hair stylist. It took 18 years to become a part-time band member again!

Have you "given back" in respect to charity?

During that 18-year break, I sang gospel and traveled to South Africa to raise money for different charities. I am grateful for all my faith has given me.

How long have you been with Fusions?

Twenty-three years. I have a great relationship with Laurie, the owner and my boss. She is an amazing business woman and keeps Fusions running smoothly.

Your hair clients, how do you feel you serve them?

I listen and I tell them what I see as an artist.  Laurie taught me the dynamics of looking at clients from an artist’s viewpoint and of educating them on what works best with their bone structure and lifestyle. It doesn’t happen on the first visit!

How do you balance career and family?

My calendar is the thorn in my side!  I pray on what I should do this coming year, so that I I have the time and energy to do my best in all my endeavors.

Are your children involved in music?

My wife is classically trained and my daughter is serious about the possibility of attending Baldwin Wallace and studying classical piano. We don’t force music on our children. 

What advice would you give the up-and-coming artists of today?

Be true to yourself.  True artists are not in it just for the money. The money will come if you excel at what you do. And a good business sense is essential. Most important, you need to strike a balance between business, being yourself, and loving what you do.