In the late 50s, he toured with the Johnny Costa trio (along with Jimmy DeJulio) for about six months, including a long run at the New York City club The Embers. From 1961-65, he was the house drummer on KDKA-TV with Johnny Costa and Jimmy DeJulio for the John Reed King variety show.

Spatafore, who "always kept a day job", was in the forefront of Pittsburgh jazz circles throughout the 60s, appearing often at both the Midway Lounge and the Crawford Grill. He also had his own trio at the Airport Holiday Inn with Bobby Negri, piano, and Bobby Boswell, bass, fronting weekend guests such as saxophonist Eric Kloss.

He has performed with Anita O'Day, Sonny Stitt, Randy Weston, Gene Ammons and others in the jazz field. Chuck was the leader of the Pittsburgh Steelers Jazz Band during the Super Bowl years.

Chuck now works for Blue Cross of Western Pennsylvania and continues the "weekend jazz gig", often with Danny Conn.