Lawrence Gowan talks about singing "Babe"

[Archetype]

Link

Lawrence: During the first meeting I had with Styx, I said, “I know ‘Babe’ was a number one hit for you guys, and congratulations on that. During the show, a strong point was made that this song was written about Dennis’ wife. I don’t really want to sing that song; I honestly don’t, as I don’t feel right about it.” I remember hoping that I had just not sealed my fate but they said, “No, we don’t have to play that song. We can do your song ‘Criminal Mind’ instead.”

We did “Criminal Mind” in the live show, then we did it on a live album and then with the orchestra. “Criminal Mind” is sort of my little spade in the ground, my little point of entry.

The band, then, began to focus on the straightforward Rock and Progressive elements of the band and they let some of the other stuff go by the wayside, even though some of that stuff was extremely successful and nothing to be ashamed of at all. “Babe” was a number one song and its part of the strength and the versatility of the band. Styx has been successful at anything they have ever done.

[Toph]

Link

Lawrence: During the first meeting I had with Styx, I said, “I know ‘Babe’ was a number one hit for you guys, and congratulations on that. During the show, a strong point was made that this song was written about Dennis’ wife. I don’t really want to sing that song; I honestly don’t, as I don’t feel right about it.” I remember hoping that I had just not sealed my fate but they said, “No, we don’t have to play that song. We can do your song ‘Criminal Mind’ instead.”

We did “Criminal Mind” in the live show, then we did it on a live album and then with the orchestra. “Criminal Mind” is sort of my little spade in the ground, my little point of entry.

The band, then, began to focus on the straightforward Rock and Progressive elements of the band and they let some of the other stuff go by the wayside, even though some of that stuff was extremely successful and nothing to be ashamed of at all. “Babe” was a number one song and its part of the strength and the versatility of the band. Styx has been successful at anything they have ever done.

Gowan has a much better attitude about this than either JY or Shaw. They should learn PR tactics from him. Like I said, unlike Froy, I actually think Gowan is quite charming personally. He seems like a nicer guy than either JY or Tommy. He just happens to be in a tough position. I don't blame him. I don't think he is nearly as talented as DDY, but I don't harbor anything against him. Now JY and Shaw.....that is another story...

[Archetype]

I like this:

Jeb: You had a successful solo career in Canada. Why not do a solo album now and use Styx to help springboard your solo music in America?

Lawrence: I’m in the midst of recording a solo album right now; I’m about halfway through it; I have returned to that outlet. After about ten years in the band, one of the mangers said exactly what you just said.

[masque]

that was a fantastic interview....gowan is very self aware of the spot he holds and how to handle it......

[pinkfloyd1973]

The band, then, began to focus on the straightforward Rock and Progressive elements of the band and they let some of the other stuff go by the wayside, even though some of that stuff was extremely successful and nothing to be ashamed of at all. “Babe” was a number one song and its part of the strength and the versatility of the band. Styx has been successful at anything they have ever done.

Yeah I bet, "Yes I Can" is so hard rockin'!
(and btw, I do like Gowan's very nice reply on the subject, the rest of the band should follow suit)

[Abitaman]

Well said by Gowan

[yogi]

GREAT interview!! Lawerence like Dennis is 100% first class.

I remember back around 1999- 2000 when Gowan replaced Dennis, Dennis stated in a very classy non bitter way how different Gowan was to him but talented none the less. I wish I had that article. It had something to do if Aerosmith replaced Steven Tyler with Rod Stewert..........

At any rate GREAT interview and great read.

[brywool]

Link

Lawrence: During the first meeting I had with Styx, I said, “I know ‘Babe’ was a number one hit for you guys, and congratulations on that. During the show, a strong point was made that this song was written about Dennis’ wife. I don’t really want to sing that song; I honestly don’t, as I don’t feel right about it.” I remember hoping that I had just not sealed my fate but they said, “No, we don’t have to play that song. We can do your song ‘Criminal Mind’ instead.”

We did “Criminal Mind” in the live show, then we did it on a live album and then with the orchestra. “Criminal Mind” is sort of my little spade in the ground, my little point of entry.

The band, then, began to focus on the straightforward Rock and Progressive elements of the band and they let some of the other stuff go by the wayside, even though some of that stuff was extremely successful and nothing to be ashamed of at all. “Babe” was a number one song and its part of the strength and the versatility of the band. Styx has been successful at anything they have ever done.

Gowan has a much better attitude about this than either JY or Shaw. They should learn PR tactics from him. Like I said, unlike Froy, I actually think Gowan is quite charming personally. He seems like a nicer guy than either JY or Tommy. He just happens to be in a tough position. I don't blame him. I don't think he is nearly as talented as DDY, but I don't harbor anything against him. Now JY and Shaw.....that is another story...

wow, this post is a surprise. Yer right, Gowan is a great guy. Lots of class. Seriously, why would he sing a song that Dennis wrote for his wife??? Cool of him to bow out of that. I've talked to Gowan a few times. He's a really cool guy.

[Babyblue]

Gowan, is a super cool guy & singer.