Steve Cowell
Hi, I'm Steve Cowell. I'm the leader of the group and I write all the words and music. I also play all the instruments and sing everything, which gets lonely at times, but at least there are few ego clashes and I get along pretty well with the other guys in the band most of the time. We all grew up together and have been playing music together since childhood.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
I first started playing in bands in 1967 and recorded my first album of my original songs in 1971, "Steve Cowell's Contra-Band." I also used to play as a solo acoustic act during those years. I was a radio and nightclub DJ from 1976 to 1987 while continuing to write songs. I recorded my second album, "Love Songs & Lectures," in 1988, playing all the instruments myself, using 4-track tape in my home studio. I retired from music for most of the 1990s, but started writing and recording again in 2000. The songs on my latest album, "Old Habits Die Hard," are inspired by my wife, Kay. I play and sing all parts unless otherwise noted.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
Only when I'm alone or have an audience.
Your musical influences
Mostly music recordings from way back in the 20th Century . But seriously, I started out playing Bob Dylan songs, and was heavily influenced by The Beatles, Chuck Berry, Beach Boys, Rolling Stones, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Paul Simon, Carlos Santana, Steely Dan, Sting, and Bruce Springsteen.
What equipment do you use?
Electric and acoustic guitars, two Roland synthesizers, and computer software, using Cakewalk Sonar for production.
Anything else?
I consider myself a songwriter more than a performer, and I am interested in any serious offers from other artists or producers to work with my songs. I am also interested in collaborating with other composers, especially to write lyrics and melodies.
