By the end of their junior year, Gutierrez and Fitchett noticed a void within the music culture of Dinuba. “Dinuba has gone 20 years without a music scene,” said Gutierrez. It was this realization that urged them to move with purpose. If there wasn’t music culture in Dinuba, then they’ll be the ones to pave the way towards it. Now, Shade of Black is planning to play during many school events. A potential event might be the Raisin Day Parade, although Fitchett and Gutierrez haven’t given their absolute confirmation. 

Co-creators Daniel Gutierrez and Alexzander Fitchett started their band, Shade of Black, with no real purpose other than to have fun. Ever since they were freshmen, they have always wanted to make music. Gutierrez and Fitchett love music, so the idea of creating it was more than appealing to them. Their goal, at the time, was to enjoy making music. The process of producing, composing, and practicing with friends is why they enjoy having a band. They named themselves Shade of Black. The band has four members: Daniel Gutierrez, Alexzander Fitchett, Nathaniel Mendoza, and Hector Miranda. Gutierrez is the lead vocalist in the band. Fitchett partakes as the drummer, and Nate is the lead rhythm guitarist. Hector assists the band as both the bassist and the second vocalist. It was an idea for the sole purpose of having fun; it wasn’t demanding. 

When the band evolved into something serious, it became exhausting. Many were accustomed to practicing whenever they felt like it. So, scheduling an exact date is difficult. And as Shade of Black began to flourish, everyone needed to be present. This plays a big part in one of the band’s issues: having everyone present to practice. Times like this are why Fitchett and Gutierrez realized the most vital part of having a band will always be management. “If you can’t be organized, then how far can you go?” said Fitchett.