HISTORY
One of the World's most interesting, innovative, entertaining and humble individuals, Johnny Ciao did not get his start in the culinary world like most so-called chefs. Working as a personal manager, concert promoter and entertainment marketing executive, he always prepared meals for his celebrity friends and clients. Johnny grew up in New York and was an avid music lover. He began his radio career at an early age of 17 on rhythmn and blues stations. At the age of 19 he was promoting major rock concerts in Florida and Jazz in Atlanta at venues including the Fox Theater, Sunshine Speedway, others whose names have changed. From personal manager to Baseball Legend Henry (Hank) Aaron and many others, he was always ahead of the upcoming trends.
Johnny along with partner Mike Cooper created one of the most innovative companies during the Music Video Explosion in the '80's. They distributed clips from every record company around the World to broadcast and non-broadcast outlets. MVS was responsible for compiling the very first music video chart, which was published weekly in TV Guide, Rolling Stone and USA Today.
His 3rd book titled 'Eating Life' chronicles the many years he has spent as an entrepreneur, entertainer and friend, not only to the Legends in the World of Music, Film and Television, but to human beings from all walks of Life!
COOKING WITH COUNTRY STARS
In the mid-80’s, Johnny Ciao produced a book and video called‘ Cooking With Country Music Stars’, that went on to sell over 1,000,000 copies. A unique collaboration of 36 of country music's biggest names, including Reba McEntire, George Strait, Hank Williams Jr., Dolly Parton and Tammy Wynette, this book offers informative cooking and serving suggestions for more than 200 recipes. Full-color photographs and biographies of each star fill the pages
CHEF TO THE STARS
After moving to San Francisco, Ciao took his culinary talent to new levels. His encounter with legendary concert promoter Bill Graham brought him in direct contact with the Grateful Dead, Carlos Santana, Huey Lewis, Buddy Miles, Chris Isaak and many other music greats. He created backstage food and went on to cook for many of these artists one on one in their homes, at recording studios, on the road and various locations.
Johnny then received a phone call that changed his life forever. Music Icon Michael Jackson collapsed on stage in the Far East, due to a poor diet and improper eating habits. Johnny was hired to strengthen and change Michael’s diet. He proceeded to move into Neverland Ranch and created healthy, fun and inventive foods for Michael and his many celebrity guests including Whitney Houston, Marlon Brando, Gregory Peck, Barry Gordy and many others. It was an experience that no other chef has accomplished in the entertainment business.
KONCERT KITCHEN BOOK
An inventive collection of easy-to-make recipes from one of America's most dynamic celebrity chefs, this cookbook is filled with what Ciao's calls "Top Five and Ten" recipes: tasty dishes that can be made with five to ten ingredients in five- to ten-minutes for five to ten dollars.
After the release of ‘Koncert Kitchen’, Johnny began appearing on top television and radio programs throughout the world. Some of Johnny’s appearances include the Today Show, Regis, Wayne Brady, Donnie and Marie, several Dick Clark Specials, Entertainment Tonight, VH-1, MTV, BBC, RAI and countless network shows throughout the US and the World.
LIVE SHOWS
Johnny Ciao also performs on harmonica with his Culinary All-Star Band comprised of the hottest musicians in the biz while he prepares food at his Famous Blues and Music Buffets which have sold out at venues across America including the House of Blues. Musicians from major groups join Johnny as he presents and prepares a feast of food and music for
hundreds of guests.
© 2015