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Gowan's
Notes to You
March 20, 2008
It's good to be Alberta bound. Gordon Lightfoot sure
got that right as the last three nights will attest.
Edmonton, Red Deer and Calgary all made me feel that
great sensation that only comes from rocking it down
Alberta -style. Thank you all for giving me that and
may the experience be repeated sometime up the road. I
raise a toast to you all. Gowan 
March 3, 2008
I had the great fortune to share the stage with Jeff Healey on a few memorable occasions.
It was such a joy to witness Jeff perform up close, particularly the live dvd we did together along with Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and The Band at Massey Hall for Ronnie Hawkins 60th.
His Christmas shows were always fun as well. What a great man and what a musician!
The guys in Styx were thrilled and sincerely impressed when Jeff once came to one of our shows.
He was the true example of the rarest of humans "The Unique Individual." His talent , his musicianship, his unrelenting will, all were expressed in his incredibly unique manner. And don't forget his sense of humour as well .
But still, for all the great sound he generated , it's his uniquely pitched voice I'll miss hearing most.
Lawrence Gowan
February 1, 2008
It's February One And I'm having so much fun Just soakin' up the sun After my snow-shoveling is done... ( I'm obviously not feeling as inspired as I'd hoped today ) But 2008 has started out pretty sweet with our Styx shows so far, and there's much more to come for your every rockin' need. Indeed. We gonna make yo' ear-drums bleed... ( still not the finding that inspiration , WTF ) . On to other matters. Have you noticed this weather ? No ?...me neither. Toronto is currently experiencing blizzard conditions. And I don't mean Dairy Queen. It's quite a scene. Where dat house effect of green ? Gettin' down on my spleen !.. ( oh god, it's hopeless ) I'm going to return to my practice immediately and I'll let you know when something emerges that's worthy of your time. Cheers for now, Your soon to be inspired artist: Gowan
December 31, 2007
It's New Year's Eve ! Have you got all your shopping done yet ?... oh, sorry that was last week's big blow-out wasn't it. Today it's MONDAY MADNESS !! If I could buy you all a Happy New Year I would, you know . But since that's not something that can be purchased I'm going to put my wallet away now. At least I offered and that's what counts... isn't it ? I think a happy new year is something you have to feel in your bones, and my bones are feeling optimistic in this regard. I hope the same may be said of your bones. If not, then may I recommend a good dose of Styx-rock-spectacle to set you on the path ? Side effects be damned, it's what you need. Not a doctor. I don't need no doc... you know what I'm sayin' dog. Just do it. Nike do and so should you. We had a wonderful time playing Merrilville and Waukegan the last two nights, and personally I had a very good time reliving the Strange Animal experience a few weeks back. '007 was a great year gig-wise. Will '08 be as great ? Let's wait, anticipate, celebrate and get a rebate. At least that's what I'm in the market for. Happy New to all of you. Gowan
December 24, 2007
I came across the strangest fellow while dining at " Ye Olde Roque-Star and Firkin" a fort-night ago . Pawn my soul, I believe his name was Ebenezer something... or Bob or Judy. Anyway, he used to work at Fezziwig's as a young clerk before starting his own counting house and tonight his deceased life long partner, Jacob Marley shall be visiting him ( in ghostly fashion ) to announce a chance and hope of reclamation. Apparently Ebenezer's been a bit of a Scrooge at Christmas for far too long and it's time he wised up... As for Kringle, he's busy but he asked me to say hello and that he'll be popping in to dish the deal sometime after midnight... so don't be alarmed and please, no pepper spray you naughty- lister's. I thank you all for your Christmas greetings and good cheer. May choirs of angels ( of all faiths and denominations but certainly those that meet the wing requirements ) accompany your dreams with sweet heavenly Metalcore to bring forth your seasonal joy. And may rockers of all ages ring in your new year to come. I raise a toast to you all. Sugar Plum Gowan ... but you can call me Rudolph
December 5, 2007
Dwellers of Earth, dig this: Over the next couple of weeks I'll be making 3 brief musical guest appearances with various friends in the Toronto area. If you do not reside in Toronto and are in need of directions, listen up:1. Find "Canada" on the map( Google Earth Search works quite well ), 2. Under the province of Ontario by the shores of the lake which bears that name...zzz zzz zzz... shh! ( I just put my own computer to sleep...) December 9 at Jeff Healey's with Greg Godovitz for a John Lennon tribute. December 12 at The Mod Club for Andy Kim's Christmas show: featuring " Gowan and Barenaked Ladies " ( I've always wanted to see those words in lights ). At that show I'll be re-united with two members of our 80's touring outfit. Namely, Peter Nunn on keys and my brother Terry on bass ( he is also musical director for this soiree ) We'll be doing a Christmas tune and also something Ominous from our past... December 16 I'll be playing with John McDermott at his annual pageant of lights which is held at some up-scale joint downtown ( the name of which I'll check in the next few days on Google Earth ). So, if perchance you can make it, do so. And please make a public spectacle of yourself... Gowan
November 22, 2007
If anyone out there in the great dirty world is feeling inspired enough to sing a little song today, I've taken the liberty of supplying you all with a lyric sheet : Happy Birthday to you, You live in a zoo, You look like a monkey, And you smell like... Please stop this childishness right now and sing it properly... ( I'll wait. And please feel free to use " dear Gowan " in the last line.. ) Excellent. That was lovely. I can't believe you remembered... Now if you'd like to move on to the next traditional Rite of Passage ( the whacks, of course ) since we are conducting this ceremony via internet,you shall have to improvise. Please follow these instructions: 1. Take out your Gowan dolls ( not the one you stick the pins in, the one you blow-up... get serious ) 2. Raise your right or left hand 3. Administer a good dose of butt-slapping 4. When your hand is entirely red and raw ( or just before you sense the rupturing of blood-vessels ) you will have reached the correct number of years required 5. I hope you're proud of yourself. ( at least I still have my dignity ). The End... or is it ? Thank-you all for your birthday greetings and to those in the USA : Happy Thanksgiving ! I hope you enjoyed the party. Do come again. Lawrence Gowan
November 4, 2007
Salutations Rockers, The great Styx tour of 2007 has concluded until after Christmas, Channukah, Kwanza, Buddah-Baby's Bath-day , and other winter solstice festivities. "We hope you have enjoyed the show ..." It has been perhaps my favourite year of performing with these fine fellows and now I have to return to all the challenging tasks of life off the road for a few weeks. You're probably thinking " Oh c'mon rockstar, just have your slaves take care of business for you... " And you're so right, except that it seems they have run off in my absence. I've placed a "NOW HIRING " sign around my neck and paraded it through town but people assume it's all something to do with Halloween...( which is just sooo over, dude. ) Perhaps it's time to write some music. Thanks to all for your kind Guest Book notes of late. I've enjoyed reading them while having my road withdrawing meltdown...
August 27, 2007
"To Those About To Rock"... a wise one did say. Have you been to one of these Styx, Foreigner, Def Leppard shows this summer ? I have been to all of them 'cause I'm just that kind of obsessed, and I think you should be too. ( I believe this heat-wave is having it's way with all of us ). We're having a great time of it with these fine fellows of Leppard... ( who are in fact NOT "def" but merely just as hearing impaired as the rest of us life-long ear splitters ) . The crowds have been especially crowded and the sweaty atmosphere has been particularly moist... but all in a good way. We've had tremendous response in all cities so far, although in Raleigh the gods of rock saw fit to tear the roof of the joint before we had a chance to by way of a mini-tornado prior to the show,( although "mini " never appeared more "maxi" to these eyes ). We have returned to Raleigh to blow 'em away once more only this time by the sheer force of our rocking. Hail Feedback ! We're going everywhere that has HBO in North America, ( blame Flight Of The Conchords ). We're even going to see Vancouver, and for me that is long over-due. I continue to enjoy your Guestbook entries and perceptions and send you all my best vibes. Lawrence Gowan June 12, 2007
Hello all you peoples, This Saturday, Styx are preparing to play on an award show in California for honoree Adam Sandler. We'll be close to the stars, the ocean and the Stanley Cup ! " and we'll have fun fun fun till Big Daddy takes the T-Bird away" After this little soiree we shall embark on the rock extravaganza of the year, melting ears and hearts along with the lads-de-la Def Leppard. We do hope you will attend in your finest of finery. My thanks to all who contributed a note of reflection to "The Gamut" regarding the 20th anniversary of "Great Dirty World". I enjoyed reading your thoughts and I'm grateful that the songs have stuck. Yes, these moonlight desires still haunt me... Also, let me acknowledge the Styxfest at Casino Rama and all the good that it shall bring about. Well done... (even the dark lords of rock are impressed) . That's all I can muster for now as I must go practice ( which I've heard makes perfect ) on my Stratocaster guitar which I am thrilled to be thrashing at during JY's " Midnight Ride " in recent shows... And they all rocked on... Lawrence Gowan
April 30, 2007
Hello from Glasgow
I'm back in the city where I first said hello to planet Earth and the sun is shining. Could this be a
sign ? I've had the good fortune to return here several times but never do I recall it looking so
inviting. I visited my Auntie first thing . Second thing will be to rock my fellow Scots to the hilt...(of their kilts) . This tour has been a resounding success for Styx.Wembley in London was certainly a hi-light and all the audiences have been in excellent form. Deep Purple and Thin Lizzy have both been great. We go back to England till the end of the week after tomorrow's show and then return to the USA...( or Canada for one of us ). Till then : "You take the high road and I'll take the low road". Either way I'll see you there.
Lawrence Gowan
March 21, 2007
Hey You, Yes, you there on the computin' thingy...How's y'all doin' ? Me ?, I'm good...We been giggin' hard for the first three months of '007 and you've been great ( as usual ). Last week I took a vacation in Vegas and saw " O " and " Love ". I loved O, and O how I loved Love. They both had me standing on my head ( that's been happening rather frequently of late ). I felt so elated after these experiences that I felt the universe was wrapping it's cosmic arms around me and whispering " No harm shall ever come to thee "... So I slipped a dollar ( U.S. ) into a slot machine and put that promise to the test. Suddenly it was raining gold from the heavens and pixies were carrying me through the casino and all the people of the earth were happy and joyously they danced...actually I'm making this up. It just pains me to confess that I lost a buck... But I don't care, because we're off to England and Scotland and Wales next month to rock the monarchy ( and Their Loyal Subjects ) to the core ! ( blimey ). Please come and see for yourself. Thanks for stopping by; Lawrence Gowan ( minus $1.00 )
January 3, 2007
Howdy Y'all, I'm watching the World Junior Hockey Tournament and Canada are going into the gold medal round...it has nothing to do with me, and yet I feel strangely responsible due to my inane screaming at the TV which obviously achieved the desired effect. You're welcome. Back to things that have less to do with my fantasy world... Styx had a lovely run of gigs leading up to New Years Eve which all who attended can attest to. The dvd which we released last November has most definitely struck a positive note with all the HDTV stations that have aired it. I hope you, dear anonymous friend, get a chance to experience it, coz it be happenin' dog...for reals. Here's to us all moving forward into a rock-tastic 2007 and beyond. Thanks for all your kind words on this site in 2006 and of course to Marlene for another fine year of webmastering. Masterfully done, indeed. Lawrence "Gowan"
December 24, 2006 (sorry this got posted late, I was on vacation)
A Very Merry Upon You All, Ring The Bells For Christmas or whatever else you wish to ring them for. If you're hard up for bells just say: "Ding Dong". There, I've said it... I enjoyed playing at John McDermott's Christmas show on the 23rd. It was electrifying in so many ways. Thanks to all who came to the Royal Alex Theatre in Toronto to witness the new traditional lighting of the piano player. By the way, I don't know if you've heard this yet or not, but Santa Claus IS coming to town and he's got a Wii !!! I wish everyone a happy and joyous day ( whether or not there be bells ) and may the New Year bring all that you hope for. And don't forget to Rock . And don't forget to brush your teeth after drinking maple syrup. And at least try a Tofurky before you tell me you're not fond of it. Peace and Good Health to you all. Lawrence Kringle
November 24, 2006
Hello you wonderful creatures, It has been brought to my attention that a few of the Gowan Live dvd's have a sync problem in the dvd extra section( Victory and City Of The Angels ). Of course these babies are still under warranty for up to 100,000 km ( approx. 60,000 mi. )... So if you ( dear valued client ) wish to receive a replacement copy, please e-mail your request to: paul@linusent.ca Proof of purchase and a blood sample may be required... Expect to get your new improved dvd after January 2007. All apologies, and I do hope we can still be friends. Thanks, Lawrence ( recently had a birthday ) Gowan
November 22, 2006
Where has the time gone ? It just seems like yesterday was Nov.21, 2006...oh, sorry that was yesterday, wasn't it...Well it just doesn't seem that long ago, does it ? I believe in the future anyway. Why else would there be horoscopes and green bananas ? When I was a boy I remember folks saying that one day there will be horse-less carriages on His Majesty's roads and I believed that mine would be a hybrid-Rolls... ( in case you were wondering what a special gift would be ). They say " Time waits for no man ", and yet this morning I found a copy waiting for me in my mail box, with a " hard to resist, low low one year subscription offer " !! It feels like my birthda... hey ! look at that... it IS my burf-day ! It's November 22, and I got a card from you and you and you. Thank you everyone for your kind birthday wishes and the hilarious jokes about aging rock-stars ( Mick and Keith were not amused in the least, let me tell you )... Now as a gesture of my concern over global warming, I'd like you to know that I've decided not to light all the candles on my cake. ( and I wouldn't want to make the Sun jealous anyway ) . ps. I slipped a little botox into my espresso this morning and I think I look great... but my stomach is starting to rumble and I think I'd better be shufflin' along now. See you on the other side, y'all. Lawrence Gowan
November 1, 2006
You Tube seems to have every little recorded
moment in history available to the Universe. For anyone who would
like to see Chilly Beach or Yam Roll or Cribs or even The Beverly
Hillbillies I'm sure it will eventually be posted by some thoughtful
individual... ( but you didn't hear that here ). I'd love to stay
and chat but there are so many "dog drives car ", " baby beats
up giant " ,
and " here's my bread mold " clips that I must get back to...
thanks , L Google
October 31, 2006 (sorry, I just got this message)
Dear Ghosts and
Living, Tonight, Halloween, the MTV Crypts...er that should be:
CRIBS show will feature the haunted house of Gowan. ( I haunt it
myself because no former inhabitant could possibly stand the volume
). Check local listings for the time. I believe it's 8:00pm EST.
See if it doesn't give you the creepiest Halloween vibe you've
ever experienced. Yes, there will be blood, ( I stubbed my toe
). There will be ghoulish music...always been my favourite. And
of course a live human sacrifice ( in the form of me having to
tidy up for the MTV folk dropping by. ) Love, The Cryptkeeper.
October 16, 2006
Bonjour Y'all I've just
spent a fine day driving through the autumn splendour on a crisp
Canadian afternoon and trying to keep my eyes on the road. It's
difficult to avert your gaze from all the colours of the trees
and the gigantic blow-up Halloween displays...I think I prefer
ravens and witches and road-kill pumpkins. What are you going
out as ? I'm thinkin' I might go for an 80's "Gowan" thing.
Majestic Mullet. Inspiring outfit...scary boots. I'm pleased
to let you know that the Gowan Live dvd entered the charts in
the top ten in my home and native land. Thanks for all your kind
comments. I'm glad you're diggin' because I loved assembling
it earlier this year, and it reminded me of what a strong band
I toured with. Thank you again, you fine fellows. Next it will
be the November release of our Styx "One With Everything" dvd.
I recommend you get yourself into that one as well... there's another
band of fine fellows if I do say...( and I do ) Our recent gigs were
tremendous, culminating in our first South American date in Aruba
which was hot in every sense of the word. I'm writing some new music
at the moment and I suppose I should get back at it. Hope to see
you when you're ready to be seen... Gowan
September 8, 2006
Hello, Styx are back at it tonight in Detroit
and Chicago tomorrow and then Missouri and then... I just wanted
to announce once again the MuchMusic "Gowan Live In Concert" DVD
will be released on Sept. 19 . It's on "Linus" distributed by
Universal, also available on-line, I'm sure. So dig. Last week
after a very full summer of touring I came home to shoot an episode
of "Cribs" for MTV... I'll let you know when it airs.
Cheers, Gowan
click
here to order online
August 12, 2006
Greetings weary travellers...from one of your own kind. The Styx
summer tour is proving to be a Blockbuster... and speaking of DVD's,
we are very much looking
forward to the release of our concert with the CYO in November,
( I believe ).
I would also like to announce the impending release of the Gowan
In Concert DVD which Muchmusic and Linus/Universal are dropping
on y'all next month. Ye shall have the delicious "chance of a long
week-end" to savour a gig from our past which will delight the
senses. (I'm writing this in California so the extra hype is to
be expected). I'm very happy that this is coming out and encourage
you to indulge.
I have enjoyed reading your notes here and thank you once again
for your comments. I notice that Vancouver is in a bit of an uproar
and I shall do nothing to discourage your zeal. In fact, I'm flattered
and look forward to the day when the opportunity to play there
again arises...However, for the immediate future it seems unlikely
(boo hoo) as our schedule is jammed to the hilt. I was
actually there breifly this week, changing planes on the way to
Washington state and took full advantage to stare at your beautiful
Rocky Mountain city and English Bay and reflected on fond memories
of gigs at the Vancouver East Cultural Centre and The Queen Elizabeth
theatre and Expo and the Commodore Ballroom and shooting the video
for When There's Time For Love and Good Rockin' Tonight and skiing
on Whistler and the Juno's and other pursuits of a decadent rock
stars existence . So, in the words of the Governator "I'll be back".
Someday. Actually, Styx will be performing in the Seattle area
next week so
perhaps a road trip for some in the BC region would suffice in
the mean time? C'mon! I'm doing all I can here people...work with
me...( insert your own cliche
here…....)
My thanks and gratitude to all. Lawrence "Gowan"
June 6, 2006
The Stanley Cup final began last night... and there were no Leafs
in sight... Boo Hoo...ah well. Styx are ready to resume our drive
for the grail of rock, in whatever form it chooses to manifest
itself. Tis a glorious quest. Recently we played a great show in
Cleveland with a 115 piece orchestra and 50 voice choir. Twas rock-a-licious.
Looking forward, we have a very full summer on the agenda, and
why not indeed? And since I am writing this on the auspicious date
6th of the 6th in 06... I'll leave you with the wish to show a
little :
yhtapmyS roF ehT liveD... L nawoG
April 15, 2006
Hello One and All, I wish to express my thanks
to everyone who made it to our Rama shows, and for your happy reviews
as well. We're getting ready for our next run which includes an
orchestra show in Cleveland. It's going to be rather classy in
a Styx-i-fied rockin' sort of way... Also, please keep an eye for
a new cartoon called "Yam Roll" which features a karioke monastery
run by a monk named Gowan ( it's a true story ). I believe it is
to be shown on the Cartoon Network. ps Watch out Homer Simpson...
L Gowan
March 10, 2006
Hail Y'all And so we march forth... ( I wish I
had sent this on March 4th )... I want you to know how much I enjoyed
playing those Gowan orchestra shows and how happy it made me to
see those concert halls filled with folks who still dig the Strange
and the Animal in us all. Peter Brennan did a tremendous job of
arranging the orchestrations and I thank him again. For you Styx
fans who made the pilgrimage to the Great White North, I hope you
found the experience enlightening...eh. Speaking of them Styx boys,
I have to say our House of Blues run through southern California
and Vegas was certainly a gas gas gas... It was great to play in
Hollywood during Oscar week. (even though I was once again overlooked
by the academy) obviously my character in Chilly Beach was too
real for them to deal. Shame...but life rocks on. Let us all continue
to Big Bang our heads and make the world shake a little better
for everyone. L Gowan
February 14, 2006
Happy Valentine's
Day Lovers...
This week-end
I'll be performing with Orchestra London on the 17th and 18th.
We will be playing the entire Strange Animal album in classical
style and I'm looking forward to it. Next week on the 22nd and
23rd in Kitchener Ontario I'll do the same with their orchestra.
I have not done these songs before an audience since the start
of the new millennium ( that makes it sound longer ) but I think
I'm almost ready to re-surface
those 80's tunes... this
time without the mullet. After that it's back to Styxworld for
yours truly , as another fine year awaits.
Stop by if you're in the neighbourhood. Ominous Spiritus.
Gowan
December 19, 2005
People of Earth; Surrender...
And
peace to men of good will hunting. After all it's Christmas and other
assorted holidays so... you know, chill baby. I just returned from
playing with my fellow rogues of Styx at Alice
Cooper's Christmas Pudding show in Phoenix. T'was the night before
and t'was great fun. I even got to sing with Alice ( who, incidently
is in fact a MAN ) on Run Rudolph Run. After
which "he" chopped off my head
and fed me to a snake...some Christmas traditions just never grow
old... Earlier
this month I performed with my pal Maestro at the Canadian Urban
Music Awards on his most excellent Hip-Hop Rap version
of Criminal Mind. He was nominated for that song. After
which he pat me on the head
and fed me to a snake...some Rap traditions just never grow
old... That show will air on December 21 (I believe ) on the
SUN TV network across Canada. Yo,
check it. This
week on December 22, I is gonna be singin' with my main man John
McDermott at Roy Thompson hall in Toronto for his Christmas show.
John's new Christmas album entitled "Images
of Christmas" features a fabulous
song called "Ring The Bells For Christmas" by a very humble and
meek ( who shall inherit the earth ) piano player. Yo, check it.
Now here's some big news: I happened to meet with Santa ( who, incidently
is in fact REAL ) the
other night, and guess what.?.. I've been upgraded to Naughty-but-Nice.
Finally. The
fat man has spoken...
So,
People of Earth, Surrender and Merry Krinkle . Lawrence Gowan
July
18, 2005
Guten
tag ( you're it ! )
Get
it? It's a play on nerds... er...words. I'm still floatin' on what
a gas we had on our European-Summer-Vacation as it were, so excuse
my rambles. The
shows recently in the USA haven't been too bad to come back to either.
In fact they've been rather stellar ! I've
really enjoyed these last two months of touring. Oh, yes indeed.
My smatterings of German, Swede, Italian, Dutch, French, Gaelic and
even English seemed to cause a few folks to shoot back sympathetic
stares and occasionally a nod...Now
if I can just master American I'll be sittin' pretty... Oh yeah.
And you know it too. There were
far too many life enriching experiences for all of us, the band of Styx,
to truly verbalise with any degree
of justice, so I hope we'll be able to reflect those experiences
somewhat musically in the future. Thanks to all of you for your words
of support and continued rocking
to the extreme limit. It has not gone unnoticed by any stretch. Until
we rock again... Lawrence Gowan
April 19, 2005
Greetings to the people
of planet Earth,
...
that includes YOU. Did you ever wonder about the origins of Rock?
Where did it come from and what was there before it was here and
who put it there in the first place and what was Her sun-sign?...
of course you have. Well enough about that already. Did you know
that our new Styx CD will be entitled "Big
Bang Theory" and pertains, to some degree, to our beliefs regarding
the essential components that converged to
bring our universe of all things Rock into existence? Believe it.
Hopefully you will, after a listen or two. May 10 is the release
date for the USA and at this writing
May 24 is the Canadian launch. We're back out touring currently and
looking forward to appearing on the "Today Show" on May 14. Thanks
for all your kind words and personal comments on this site recently.
I've enjoyed reading them. Rock
on dear bretheren and sisteren. L Gowan
March 5, 2005
Hey all
you fine folks,
I just tested my knee for the first time post-surgery and... I believe I
can fly...My first attempt was off a baby-grand but by next week I'll leap
tall piano's at a single bound
...as you can see the medication hasn't quite worn off yet... Thanks so much
for all your well wishes. I know they had a positive affect. This was a life
enhancing experience in
many unexpected ways. A knee isn't such a big deal... but continuing to
play music is. My mind is focused and next week in Nashville I'll be
struttin'. Knee Deep In Love...
or something.. Lawrence Gowan
February 18, 2005
We're just putting the
final touches on the new record (with I Am The Walrus). It's sounding
rather splendid,
if you're interested in my un-biased opinion...Did you see the Brad
Pitt commercial on the Superbowl that featured the Styx classic "Renegade"?
It was awesome (once again, un-biased). Now I have some news as well.
March 1st I'll be indulging in something they call "knee-surgery" but
I assure you I'll be on stage with Styx on March 8th in Nashville.
The surgeon has promised me a 100% recovery. I asked him if I could
have 110%, but he said "No, I'm
sorry but that is a mathematical impossibility "...
so we've settled on 153% and that's final. Thank you all for your
kind words of concern. I'll just have increase the "rocking out" thing
to 200% (which IS apparently possibe if one chooses the right partner).
99.9% Yours (I have to hold SOMETHING back just to retain a hint
of dignity)
Lawrence "knee-jerk-reaction" Gowan
January
3, 2005
A
Happy New Year to all of you who have visited this site. Thanks once
again for your words of support and may the Universe smile upon ye. Please
take advantage of any opportunity you may have in 2005 to come and have
your world rocked to the core by the fellows collectively known as Styx...we
shall be honoured to serve you in this regard for we are the Walri... er
Walrusses ?... um walrusseses? What is the plural of that critter anyway?
Why are we here ? These and many other questions will likely remain a
mystery to us in the coming 365 days, but alas, we have music and
tight trousers to comfort our inquiring minds and passify our yearning
hearts... As for our souls; that's a private matter on which I have no
right to pry, though I can't help but be curious. (aren't we all ). So,
peace and good health to you...( I'll be staying veggie) ... y'all
do whatcha like. L Gowan
December 25, 2004
Hello Ho Ho
Are you making rather merry? Well you should be. It's Christmas Day... I
wish everyone a very merry everything on this 25th of December and hope that
Santa
missed your name on the naughty list, ( thereby giving you your hearts
desire). Love and Tofurky to all. Lawrence Gowan
Decemer
2, 2004
Have
I got egg on my face? It has been a while since I hacked out a little
greeting on the site. Please forgive. As you may be aware, good old "I
Am The Walrus" (Styx version) is garnering much attention these
days and this is contributing to an extra dose of happiness in our
situation. I've been doing a fair share of radio "interviews" expounding
on the details of how it came to be recorded by this band of American
renegades with one token Canadian in tow, and how we have enjoyed
the reaction. We've completed a video. Played our tour of "04", with
the final date being aboard ship in Mexico... no, hang on, we also
have a Christmas show in New York next week on the 6th. Feel free
to stop by. Maybe we'll go skating afterwards. Have some tea. A walk
in the park. A galk in the dark. Get bit by a shark. Ah yes, I be
rhymin' today.... Thanks to all who sent birthday wishes, tasty dishes,
so delicous. I went snorkelling... saw some fishes. Enough. My best
to all. Cheers, Lawrence Gowan
June
8, 2004
Hello
there. Styx continues on our merry way touring as we are with the
support of Peter Frampton and Nelson. The new show and my authentic
Canadian Mountie coat are driving the masses wild with music and
fashion awesomeness (hereby declared a word). Last weekend we played
at Eric Clapton's Crossroads festival in Dallas and I was pleased
to sing I Am The Walrus along with an enthusiastic throng... and
I also met Billy Preston. One of my long time idols. And so we travel
on... as do you.
Cheers. L Gowan
March 23, 2004
Hello
to everyone of you; I've just come back from a week of Styx in Los
Angeles, Atlanta, Miami and Valdosta,
Georgia... and the walk has done me good. We're getting revved up for
the big summer ahead which will feature Peter Frampton opening all
shows. I saw him years ago with David Bowie and loved his guitar work
so this should be fun. I'm giving some thought to what theme my stage
apparel should be... hmmm... this is when the life of a musician takes
on a deeper meaning indeed. Perhaps I'll just wait and see what suggestions
our audience toss onstage. Until then my friends, please grab
every opportunity to rock with great vigour. (and check out the
MTV extra on the " School of Rock" dvd to see a nice photo of us with
Jack Black ) all the best,
Lawrence Gowan
December 25, 2003
Merry
Christmas to all ! It is Christmas Day 2003 and here I send you all
my best wishes for a happy one and also an advance "cheers" for a great new year as well. My thanks once again
to all who have enjoyed this web site and to Marlene for creating it
and running for another glorious year. I blush in gratitude.
Through this month of December I've had a good time musically speaking.
A bit of writing, a bit of playing: Jeff Healey's Christmas fund raiser
was a grand success and I thank all of you familiar faces for attending
and I hope you enjoyed yo'selves. I hadn't sung Strange Animal for
a while and it was good to belt it out that night. Also on December
22 I performed at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto in John McDermott's Christmas
Show and that too was a good and different time for yours truly...
It's off to Los Angeles tomorrow and then Vegas for New Years Eve so
I'm getting my licks in good this month all round. All the best to
everyone, again, and here's looking to see your smiling-rockin-ever-lovin'
mugs in the near future. HO HO ...
November 22, 2003
November 22, 2003 was a birthday like no other for
yours truly. Styx had played the previous two nights to great audiences
in Tampa and Boca Raton. Then we awoke in Orlando and headed for a
pre-arranged private tour of NASA. Recently we had become friends with
the son of one of the astronauts who flew the Apollo 14 mission to
the moon. He gave us a view of the space program that few are afforded...
and I loved it. I was able to step inside the Space Shuttle Discovery
and witness some of the work being done to prepare it for its return
to space. I'm still somewhat euphoric from the experience and so grateful
to have had the opportunity. It was truly awe inspiring.
L Gowan
November
5, 2003
Greetings
to all,
After reading your kind notes of support, I say thanks and may all good things
come to you. (as they should)...
Styx have been touring to great effect all throughout this Year of the Carrot...(blessed
be thy root vegetable,all praise and honour be upon it).
Lately
we've been able to lengthen the shows, now that all time constraints
have been erradicated. This we like. Just these past two weeks in
both Memphis and New Orleans and other places we seem to have expanded
our scope especially with our new boy Ricky Phillips entering the
fold. We just completed our Canadian Tour, which consisted of two
sold out nights at CasinoRama (north of Toronto) to a wonderful blend
of Canadian and travelling American faithful. Great audience, Great
venue, Great balls of fire...Also nice to see some folks who came
in from Quebec (merci mes amis).
 I
have something rather shamelessly boastful to share with you now.
The Gowan song "Moonlight Desires" is to receive the Classic
Award from SOCAN, the performing rights society of Canada.
This is for radio air-play in excess of 100,000 spins. Very gratifying. The
award show will be held in Toronto on Nov.24. Also being so honoured are
the songs: Life is a Highway, Sunglasses at Night,
and Let's Give Them Something to Talk About...hip tunes to be in the company
of. Yours Truly was asked and has recklessly accepted to MC this show as
well...could a shot at game-show hosting
be far behind?..."Let's see what we've got for 'em, Bob..." I'm
quite happy about all this and pleased that my solo songs are still kicking...
and A Criminal Mind is a Styx song too!
The
Cyclorama continues. May it's journey live long into the night....Vitamin
A or as we Canucks call it:Vitamin Eh---(what a poor attempt at humour).
May all your Carrots be golden and bring more love... Lawrence Gowan
August
10, 2003
Hey
Hey, My My
Rock n Roll will neve r die...(thanks Neil)
Truer words were never spoken as far as our recent tour will attest. The "Main
Event" was how we billed the Styx, Journey, REO arena rock tour of 2003,
and it was some event indeedy. Such large and enthusiastic crowds in some
of my all time favourite NHL rinks. I thank the teams for the hockey jerseys
(or sweaters to us Canadians) and the chance to use a hockey stick to fire
beach balls out to the faithful... Oh yeah...the music was great too. Mixing
the Styx classics with the new stuff was well received. "Waiting For
Our Time" Fields Of The Brave", "These Are The Times" and "Kiss
Your Ass Goodbye" all worked well. Using the giant video screen behind
us, with all our special film bits enhancing the Cyclorama songs really helped
reach everyone right to the back of the multitude. In LA, for example, Jack
Black and Kyle Gas had everyone in tune with their manic vibe during "Kiss
Your Ass Goodbye". Though for myself there were a few exaggerated antics
that I plagued my body with which were quite blown up out of proportion...(little
lingerie embarrassments which could happen to anyone)... Let's move on...
In Washington I had the good fortune, thanks to a pal, to get a tour of the
White House. So There!...(pardon me). I also met with John Roberts of CBS
News. He had recently returned safely from Iraq. Back in the 80's as JD Roberts
of "The New Music" he was the first interview I had done for Strange
Animal. It was good to talk with him again. One of the many rewarding aspects
of touring is the opportunity to meet with those you've lost contact.
The Regis and Kelly show was very enjoyable for Styx, and a nice diversion
from our usual performing circumstances. A great New York moment near the
end of the tour.
My thanks to all those who came, who saw, who rocked all over the USA.
Coming up next we'll be extending the show and adding some new and old to
shake y'all up a bit.
So get ready.
.....L Gowan
March
25, 2003
 Hail
good folk,
Styx have now completed our winter tour and released Cyclorama and travelled
here and there and returned safely to our bunkers and will soon announce...
wait for it... our summer tour 2003 and more... that's right, more. Now with
50% more love, and 50% more buzz!...
I love a good run-on sentence. So free from the laws of grammar. Set me free,
baby...(now there's a strong lyric for you)...OK enough.
Thanks once again to all of you who experienced our new show. For your gratifying
comments on this web-site and for your positive feed-back on the new album.
All very appreciated by yours truly.
Now Brothers and Sisters let us bang our heads and rock...or at least find
some escape in the form of a good musical awareness. May spinning piano's
come your way...go see STYX.
Cheers, Lawrence Gowan.
February
24, 2003
Howdy Y'all
It has been a tremendous start to 2003 with the Superbowl, the Concerts,
the release of Cyclorama and the world rocks along undaunted (but on high
alert).It's a code orange.So, "What's with the Carrot?" you may
well ask. "That's the bait my dear",some may well reply. Now go
get it... or at least get on with whatever it is that motivates you. Singing
a good song as you go tends to make the journey lighter. Also a hearty laugh
to fine-tune the attitude. We're enjoying our new shows which at this point
include new material and production, a splendid spectacular indeed. Off to
North Dakota in a couple of days, and then to a town much like your own.
Looking forward to it. Rock hard my friends.
January
3, 2003
 Welcome
to 2003. Its been a good year so far and it seems like it just
began yesterday... So caught up are we in the Cyclorama of
it all. I had a very different New Years Eve having just returned
from shows in Anaheim and Lake Tahoe to the familiar ground
of Toronto. I was able to call Tommy Shaw from the future since
our stroke of midnight preceded that of Los Angeles by three
hours... it felt wonderfully dis-orienting to be phoning back
to the year 2002 from the fabulously advanced and sophisticated
2003. Yes, small things amuse small minds as they say,but then
again how many of us have time travelled? (it's over-rated,
take it from me). These first days of the new year I'll be
spending in private rehearsal for the songs of our upcoming
tour of the universe.We actually debuted one "Fields of
the Brave" from the new album at the last two shows. We
were very gratified by the response it garnered and decided
that a future in show biz is still in the cards if the gods
continue to smile upon us in their benevolent ways. May they
do the same for all of you who have given your spirit of encouragement
to us so generously in 2002. Please continue to do so and know
that our appreciation is sincere to the last drop, like a smooth
espresso...mmmm you can almost taste it. Have a great 2003
y'all and look to see those STYX fella's in a town near you
(or the town where you live, which is even more convenient)
Aaaah,welcome to the future.
December
3, 2002
 Hello
hello,
Here's a little web note...
Over the last weekend Styx had the rare and incredibe opportunity to do some
recording with Brian Wilson, the Beach Boys mastermind. Among the procedings
we also sang a little Christmas ditty for his web-site. You should soon be
able to hear it at: www.BrianWilson.com The
very essence of California music came from this man and it was an experience
extraordinaire to sing with him. We loved it.
October
27,2002
All is going great with the new album. It should be released around February
2003. Also, we have recorded a Christmas CD which features several Classic
rock bands. Actually I think it comes out next month. It is called A Classic
Rock Christmas... Though I would have preferred: O Come All Ye Headbangers,
but we can' t always get what we want...
L. Gowan
September
28, 2002
Hello Web-site visitors,
Styx continue to record our new album. Los Angeles weather fine. I stood
right next to Paul McCartney prior to his show for landmine relief. I was
in Beatle heaven. (it's a great to be)...a re-affirmation of my life's direction.
It's fun to be a fan. Also, Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys played a
tremendous set. I actually saw Paul act like a fan for Brian's music. Yes,
it is fun to be a fan. Me likee bigtime. Cheers to you's all.
L Gowan
September
5, 2002
 Howdy
Y'all,
..as they say in American, (which I am still not quite fluent in) As summers
go this had to be one of the most satisfying of all, (including the time
I thought I struck oil down at the creek...when I was 10 years old). To play
show after show to such rapturously happy folks is my idea of life at its
finest. Gig-Heaven baby! that's what I be talkin' bout. It was all that and
a tour of Alcatraz that's got me typing away here at nearly 5-words-an-hour.
How can I get enough ... as one wise sage once sang, and will again when
the wind changes. It was hot of course, but is not summer supposed to be
so...all you rappers say: YO!! In fact I think we all got a little crazy
from the heat and that's why a dip in the old STYX river was so good for
us all. We play again this weekend and then return to Los Angeles to forge
the next chapter in new songs for 2003. I thank you for all your posted messages
of good will. Looking forward to our hooking up in the near future and beyond
if the universe smiles in agreement.
Till then... love and namaste-(that's yoga-speak). Lawrence Gowan
August
15, 2002
 we
have begun recording new stuff (between tour dates ). However
the bulk of the new album will be worked on in the fall of
this year.
Hello
to you, April 4, 2002!!
...is it that time already..Great to read all your kind words about the tour
so far this year. Many thanks. The band has really dug in with new music
and a few nuances added to the show as well. If you have read some of Tommy's
notes on the Styx site you know we have been having more fun on top of more
fun so as to be considered well over the legal limit fun-wise. But of course
Excess is
Best...(I'm trying to start a new cliche). Highlights... lets see...
The Houston Astrodome (over 50,000 in attendance)
Florida...maybe it was the weather..
Denver... some of the Detroit Red Wings came to say Hello...
Billings Montana...I went to the battlefield of Custers last stand at Little
Bighorn (not a good day Generally speaking...)
Portland Oregon, one of my favourite walking towns...
Canada wins Olympic Hockey Gold (despite the fact that I was side-lined with
a Styx tour)
...and a sea of great crowds that kept things spinning piano-wise. Keep er
comin...
Lawrence Gowan (yogi)
December
22/01
 Hello
HO HO
Here's a few words to all the naughty and the nice. It is great to be alive
and at home for this December 25. I hope the same for you who read this.
All is buzzing around here and also in Styxworld. We spent a week together
in Los Angeles from Dec.10 and got a few things down including some new music.
This me like mucho bella...whatever that means. We're even thinking that
perhaps we'll write some more, then record it and release it to the world
like a professional band! (my sarcasm classes are really starting to pay
off )
We
also played a Christmas show for KLOS at which I met Mrs. Partridge
herself (in a pear-tree of course ) I told her she was a huge influence
on my keyboard playing style and I was inspired by those great Partridge
Family lyrics:" C'MON GET HAPPY"... (if you just sang that
to yourself I'll bet you're happy now ). At the same show were Brian
Setzer, Pat Benatar, Eric Burden and even Jack Palance who took time
to insult my shirt... I' ve since had it burned. Great audience as
well. In addition we attended a dinner for those who contributed
to the House of Ruth, and bashed out a few Christmas carols around
the piano. This I enjoyed even more because of the surroundings;
Sunset Boulevard, Eddie Van Halen, Styx, and a singing restaurant
of "beautiful-people"... even Roger Ebert was sighted and
it is rumoured that he gave it a thumb-up ! ( I hope that was his
thumb) , all very different from this Canadian's perspective.
 Earlier
in the month, here in Toronto, I had a great time playing with Jeff
Healy at his club and I was touched to see so many familiar faces
by the stage... it was breathing space only! Since returning home
I' ve been blowing my cash, making my own cappucino's, trying to
play along to the Charlie Brown Christmas cd, and waiting for three
spirits to visit me on Christmas-eve. I have even bought my tofurkey
! (non-vegetarians reading that last line are scratching their heads)
...gobble gobble. I anticipate the swallow of a million cranberries
by my own mouth. Boy! Santa, will my nose be red ! Are they good
for you? Is chocolate good for you ? Who cares.
Now
let me come to the point in my own words; "Though it's been
said many times, many ways...Merry"... okay, maybe those are
not my own words. But at least I rip-off the good stuff... Have a
joyous and fun-filled Christmas all of you. Don't forget to ring
the bells. Cheers and good health. Joyeux Noel a tous ! Yours in
jingle-bell rock, Lawrence Gowan
p.s. Hope to see you New-Years-Eve in Lake Tahoe, or somewhere in 2002. Till
then, may kilt-y pleasures be yours.
November
13, 2001
 Hello,
We visited "Ground Zero" today to present a cheque for $500,000
to the NY Port Authority Police. Words cannot convey the experience. Perhaps
in a few days I'll try to express my thoughts.
L. Gowan
October
22, 2001
Hello
Hello,
The idea and the spirit was pure Tommy Shaw. The atmosphere was charged.The
fans were true-breed-marathon-rockers who gave it all and for the last two
nights of benefit concerts in Atlanta and Dallas I'll always be grateful.
What a tremendous effort by all the bands; Styx, Bad Company, REO, Journey,
Grand Funk-Mark Farner, John Waite, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Survivor, Peter Frampton,
Eddie Money, Edgar Winter, Kansas, and a great hosting job by Drew Carey!
I was so entertained by all. My thanks to those who contributed by their
attendance...(one couple paid $10,000 for a pair of front row seats)!...I
hope they caught a polaroid...
These
are exceptional days. Also, we sang "God Bless America" at
the Alanta Braves baseball game on Friday night and I seized the
opportunity to shake the hand of past President Jimmy Carter as we
left the field. ...I wonder what he paid for front row?...I hope
he caught a puck...Thanks
again, if you're reading this Mr. President. You made my day. Back to the
concerts; I'm still reeling. Exceptional days; Cheers, Lawrence Gowan
October
9, 2001
 Greetings
to all, I've been meaning to send a note for some time... but with
my CNN addiction life has me glued by the eye-balls and unsure of
what to say. The shows we have done since Sept. 11 have been most
meaningful and I am grateful to the audiences for their life-affirming
gusto, their emotional patriotism, and their presence! Freedom lives!
I'm also glad to be preparing for our two benefit shows upcoming
in Dallas and Atlanta. I know they are going to be of help to many,
and I'm honoured to take part. And then Styx comes back to Canada!
Well...Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. T'will be
great I'm sure. But I, like millions on earth, see more than ever
that life has taken on a deeper sense of purpose and everything is
magnified in significance. Words mean more. Songs resonate stronger.
Jokes are funnier...(I wish I had one to share)...Did you see Saturday
Night Live? I thought it was great. Everything has changed and will
ultimately get better, I must believe. All the best to all who read
this and my recommendation that we all keep doing the things we love
to do. Now can I get an Amen?... p.s. John Lennon is 61 today; great
music lives forever.
Cheers, Lawrence Gowan
July
17, 2001
 Hail
to all,
Styx have just completed our tour with Bad Company, Billy Squier
and Joe Stark and what a tour that was! Just a joy to be a part of
from the start. We were given the best response to date from all
of you who ventured into "STYXWORLD" and
The Rock n Roll hall of fame (where the tour officially began) were given
a nice tidy sum from us at the second last show (presented giant-cheque style
on stage in Chicago). Too many highlights are flooding back to me as I write
this and I'll have to contain my selections to these few for now. Toronto
of course would be high on my list simply because of my experiences with
so many Gowan shows there at Ontario Place...past. I made reference to a
bit of that past prior to our Styx rendition of A Criminal Mind. (or: "the
song that would not die"). The production for Criminal made it feel
fresh and vibrant from my perspective and I would suspect that many in the
crowd felt it lifted the piece beyond it's known refrain. Or maybe Styx just
play the hell out of it. I was also happy to hear it on the radio in so many
of the U.S. cities we played and, for me, playing it in all the shows made
me feel as though my solo days and my current status as one piece of the
Styx magic, have taken a very fluent course. As James Brown testified "I
Feel Good...I knew that I would now.."
Los
Angeles, Detroit, New Jersey, Dallas and of course Chicago all provided
particularly endearing nights, but I'm hard pressed to really think
of any city that did not. It just went beautifully all across the
nation and my thanks to all of you who made it so. Also, apart from
the shows I enjoyed my "Lawrence Gowan Does America" tourist
extravaganzas. Walking the Freedom Trail of Paul Revere through the
streets of Boston (and re-enacting Bobby Orr's overtime goal in the
parking lot where the Boston Garden once stood) were fun. As was
my visit alone to the Bates Motel and the house where Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho" were
filmed. I went to JFK's grave (five minutes later Ted Kennedy passed
me on the street) in Washington. I was allowed to play Franz Lizst's
piano in the Metropolitan Art Museum in Manhattan...It was all so
great.
To Be Continued ...Many Thanks;
Lawrence Gowan
April
1, 2001 (this is not an April fool joke)
 Hear
Ye, Hear Ye all who care to know...
We just got back from our official Summer Tour Announcement at the
Rock n Roll Hall o' Fame. We have now made it known that STYX will
tour throughout the summer of 2001 with Bad Company and Billy Squier.
Also a young blues guitarist Joe Stark will join us. The press conference
was lively and cheerful in that Hallowed Hall of Cleveland and we
enjoyed the presence of the Styx followers who were in attendance
as well. Tommy and myself did a similar press day in Pittsburgh the
day before. We also let it be heard that our new live album which
we recorded in Japan, Canada and Germany will be coming out during
the tour with the title STYXWORLD to coincide with the nature of
the record. It will feature songs that were hits for the band outside
of the USA and will include a song by some Scottish-Irish-Canadian guy...
a Styxified version (and a fine one at that) of A Criminal Mind. Oooooo me
so extra exxxcited ! I can't wait for this new record and our new show to
get happening. One other thing of note I'd like to share. While at the RnR
Hall of Fame I saw the special John Lennon exhibit which included his original
lyric manuscripts for such songs as "In My Life" and "Imagine".
What a wonderous experience to get so close while listening to them being
played over the sound system. It once again re-affirmed my faith in music's
overwhelming power to hold you in an awestruck trance. Pure magic. Lawrence
Gowan
 February
23, 2001
Hail
Styx n' Gowan music afficionados of da world.
2001 has had a rousing kick-off and Yeah! we-be-ready-for-more. To
start this new year, our tour of seventeen U.S. cities and three
Canadian, couldn't have gone better. Aside from a couple of little
medical mishaps on my part, I'd say we're relatively intact. We're
feeling very inspired and gratified by the folks who have cheered
us on with so much enthusiasm. I've now experienced that phenomenon
of warm weather in winter, thanks to our visits in Alabama, Georgia
and Florida. Then I was happy to get slapped back into to my native
reality of brutal survival in Calgary and Edmonton. Great crowds and media
in our "home and native land" (feel free to sing). I managed to
see Marlene-The-Webmaster and give her hommage and pancakes for this masterful
site. Sas Jordan rocked out. Jann Arden said "Hello".
Name-droppers-Anonymous
arrested me and I told them that my new pal Sting would be paying
my bail. Kelowna B.C. was also a welcome sight for mine eyes to see
from Rocky Mountain to screaming mob. But I think the experience
of playing at the Superbowl will be a stand-out for some time to
come. I wish I could describe the rush of adrenaline that surged
in us when we were on that field in Tampa-Bay. It was "Top o'
the world Ma!" kinda vibe. Superbowl, January 28, 2001, the
two-hundred and nineteenth time I'd walked onstage with Styx was
one amazing moment. I was touched-down deep. Get it? Touchdown deep?
Y'know like football...when a guy scores a goal and it's called a
TOUCHD...well maybe it's not that funny but it was one of the best
gigs ever. If anyone reading this were among the 72 thousand in attendance,
I'll bet you enjoyed it ! Maybe you too were touchdown deee...Okay,
I'll stop it... At the conclusion of this run of shows we travelled
to Palm Springs for a couple of days to do a photo shoot for this
summers upcoming tour. If you visit Styxworld.com , you'll see some
of Tommy's video clips of that day. We're now back at our homes preparing
musically for the changes that will define those shows and allowing
the gods to perhaps enlighten us with a few new tunes as well.
Keep
yer torches lit, and I'll sieze you somewhere up the road...til then,
Lawrence Gowan.
Images
from various shows by LouAnn Erickson
The images do not reflect the notes.
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