Meet Ron Schneider: Creative Force Behind Eliminator Band

A man with a long white beard wearing sunglasses, a beige wide-brim hat, and a black embroidered jacket, playing a bass guitar on stage.

My name is Ron, and my musical journey began with childhood dreams and a passion for rock. At five, I fantasized about being a Secret Agent, by thirteen, that dream shifted to mastering the “Secret Agent Man” theme on guitar. A Harmony acoustic guitar, a gift that sparked my creativity, became my gateway. A friend taught me the chords to “Louie, Louie,” and I was hooked, spending hours strumming and dreaming of the stage. Saving money from cleaning fish tanks, I later bought a Harmony bass, expanding my skills and setting the foundation for my career.

In high school, I joined the school band as an upright bassist, though I often found myself teaching rock songs to classmates rather than focusing on orchestral pieces. Those moments fueled my love for sharing music. After graduation, I dove into Chicago’s local rock scene, playing in various bands and honing my craft. My basslines grew tighter, and my stage presence stronger. In the late 1980s, I formed Dr. Bizzaro and the Disgustos, a band that blended punk energy with theatrical flair. We caught national attention, earning mentions in Rolling Stone and Hot Rod magazine for our wild performances and unique sound, a milestone that validated my dedication.

Post-Dr. Bizzaro, I joined General Patton’s band, where I refined my vocal skills, discovering a new dimension to my artistry. Later, I fronted Triple Threat, a trio heavily influenced by ZZ Top’s gritty blues-rock. Their raw energy resonated with me, and I saw an opportunity in Chicagoland for a top-tier ZZ Top tribute. In 1992, I grew out my beard, embraced the persona, and founded Eliminator. Since then, we’ve been delivering high-energy performances, capturing the spirit of Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill, and Frank Beard. From local venues to festivals, Eliminator brings ZZ Top’s legacy to life with authenticity and passion.

Proudly endorsed by GHS Strings, I continue to pour my heart into every note. Music has been my calling—from a kid with a Harmony guitar to leading a renowned tribute band. Each performance is a celebration of rock’s enduring power and the joy of connecting with fans.