Fun Bio Facts

Favorite color:
Blue, probably because of clear blue skies and I also love water.

Favorite food:
I love pasta dishes.

Least liked food:
That I do eat, or don't eat? I don't eat Octopus.

Favorite movie:
Any movie that has Julia Roberts in it.

Favorite album:
Frank Sinatra, any of his selections.

Favorite Polka:
Slap Happy

Sign:
Gemini (May 26)

Born in Cleveland and raised in Euclid, Ohio, Ron Sluga began his musical career after he broke his wrist at the age of three. His doctor suggested a stringed musical instrument for therapy and his parents bought him a mandolin. Aside from being an accomplished musician on the banjo, guitar and mandolin, Ron is a gifted vocalist.

Ron’s first public job was playing banjo with his brother Herman on accordion at their father’s shop Christmas party when he was only eight. It was this first gig that inspired Ron to pursue a career in music. At 15, Ron became part of a 5-piece ensemble called the Tune Toppers, joined the Joey Stradiot Band at 16, and was recording and making TV appearances with Kenny Bass at 17.

When Ron was 19, he began working with Frank Yankovic and later joined Cleveland’s Polka King, Johnny Vadnal. It wasn’t until he started working with Johnny that Ron had an opportunity to develop his singing ability.

Aside from his music career, Ron also attended The Cleveland School of Engineering, achieved his Associate Degree and became an engineering supervisor at White Motors in Cleveland. Music and engineering were his life for many years. When White Motors left Cleveland, Ron opened his own music store and Sluga Music served his community for fifteen years.

Ron has been honored as a seven-time winner of the Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame's "Sideman of the Year" award and 2002's "Best Vocalist" award. Other honors include being an integral part of the first polka Grammy, which was accepted by Frank Yankovic.

Currently, Ron resides in Willowick, Ohio with his wife Patty. When he is not touring nationally or internationally, Ron is working on his third solo project, an eclectic compilation that is sure to showcase Ron’s superb playing and singing abilities.