Cathy DiToro is a name synonymous with passion, dedication, and empowerment in the world of music. As the lead singer of not one, but two cover bands (That’s so Fetch and Legwarmers), and the founder of the Hera Project, she has left an indelible mark on the music scene. Her journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her craft and her desire to uplift others.
Cathy’s journey as a musician took a significant turn in 2015 when she joined the band “Leg Warmers.” Two years later, she embarked on another musical adventure, co-founding “That’s So Fetch” with one of her bandmates. These bands became more than just stages to perform on; they were her canvases for musical expression.
One might wonder how someone who leads two bands can manage stage fright. Surprisingly, Cathy does not get freaked out on stage, except for the memorable gig at the 9:30 Club. Her thousands of performances have turned her into a seasoned performer who thrives under the spotlight.
For Cathy, the 9:30 Club holds a special place in her heart. It is a venue that has seen the likes of countless legendary musicians, and for her, the opportunity to perform there was nothing short of a dream come true. She fondly recalls, “I grew up coming here and dreaming of playing here.” While she performed in front of thousands, the nerves kicked in precisely because of the venue’s iconic status.
Beyond her musical endeavors, Cathy’s desire to make a difference led her to start “The Hera Project.” Her experience as a counselor in a high school in 2012-13 fueled her passion for helping people. However, the stress of her day job and the demands of her musical pursuits took a toll; she realized the need to merge her two worlds, music and helping people. The project, named after the Greek goddess Hera, reflects Cathy’s love for Greek mythology.
“The Hera Project” hosted four music festivals celebrating women of all ages and featured open mic sessions every month. Cathy’s aim was to provide young girls with an outlet to display their talents and passions. Her events emphasized family-friendliness, creating a space where everyone has a chance to show off their amazing skills and talents.
Cathy’s childhood dreams of having a place to perform, even with strict parents, came true. She created a middle ground between performing in bars and singing alone in her room, uniting people through music.
With multiple bands, venues, and Project Hera on her plate, Cathy faced the risk of burnout. The onset of COVID-19 helped her calm down and look at her life and music career, enabling her to focus on a few things at a time.
Cathy’s positivity shines through in every situation. Her bands are like family, supporting each other through difficulties. Most of her challenges came from outside her bandmates.
The music industry is notoriously difficult, especially for women. Cathy had to fight for her place and earn respect in a male-dominated field. She looked up to musical icons like Billy Joel and Gwen Stefani and had a deep love for classical music.
The ’80s era was a significant source of inspiration for Cathy, as seen in her band, Leg Warmers. “That’s So Fetch” carried personal meaning from the 2000s, capturing years of growth and nostalgia for both Cathy and her audience.
Stepping onto the stage fills Cathy with adrenaline, immersing her in a world where she is in her element. Her incredible and interactive performances reflect her profound connection with music and her audience.
In Cathy DiToro, we see not just a musician but a passionate advocate for empowerment through music. Her journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, reminds us of those dreams, when pursued with dedication, can indeed become a reality. Cathy’s unwavering commitment to her craft and her mission to empower others make her a true icon in the world of music.
