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Tony Kramedas joined Automatic Pilot in 1980 shortly after its inception, appearing in the first public performance. His enthusiasm was the driving force behind the band's activities.

In addition to Automatic Pilot, Tony sang with the Gay Men's Chorus and the St.Lukes Cathedral choir. He was the co-proprietor of The Inn San Francisco, and worked to restore and transform the Victorian on South Van Ness into one of the city's premiere bed and breakfast establishments. Tony was also well known for his garage sales.

From the beginning, Tony saw great potential in the band's songs, and persevered to make it happen. He financed numerous demo recordings of the band, each one an improvement on the one before.

After Automatic Pilot's live performing days came to an end, Tony produced and financed a number of professional recordings of the band's songs, featuring the voices of Matt and Tony, backed by Karl's keyboards and some of the best studio musicians the Bay Area had to offer. The resulting compilation, posthumously titled "Back from the Dead" is Tony's baby.

Tony died on Saturday September 21, 1985. His contribution was recognized in a cover article for the SF Chronicle Datebook titled: AIDS: A Staggering Blow to Bay Area Arts.