Just when it seemed the entire music world had gone politically correct, out of the deep Piney Woods of NE Texas comes a throwback to the days when an outlaw could be an outlaw.The Roger Cowan Band takes no prisoners with their simple, straight-forward approach to ass-kicking country. You want to hear alot of over produced, multitracked radio-friendly music? You're in the wrong place!
Drawing influences from outlaws both new and old, from Waylon Jennings to Jackson Taylor, from Johhny Cash to Ozzy Osbourne, the RCB brings forth a raw, aggressive approach to music. An in your face, say what we want, no holds barred attack on the establishment. With songs like "Juke Joint Jesus" and "Leave Me Alone", to mournful songs of broken hearts and pushing ahead in life "Fallen Angels" and "Like a Rollin Stone," the RCB is sure to reach everyone.
Growing up the son of an old school honky tonk hellraiser, Roger learned from an early age what it meant to be true to yourself. Take no shit and never let anyone hold you down. A lesson taught early and proven often, Roger brings the same approach to his music.Some folks may not like the songs I sing or care for the attitude I put off, but they don't have to listen. I write from the heart and all those haters can kiss my Texas ass!"- Roger Cowan, 2008. A no-nonsense, what you see is what you get outlook on life, with gritty, whiskey-fueled lyrics, make his songs something not for the faint of heart and strong on moral character. Covering topics such as getting drunk and going to jail, or getting high and waking up with a stranger, nothing is sacred or taboo.
Roger Cowan only plays around the Hill Country a few times a year, but is working on making it a more regular trip from Beckville, because he feels the Hill Country audience is where his songs resonate. We talked when he was playing the Rowdy Float Trip, and Cowan answered 10 questions for me.
Who are your songwriting influences?
Townes Van Zandt, Waylon Jennings, and Pug Johnson of the Slow Rollin Lows (www.slowrollinlows.com).
When and where was your first public performance?
I played a set at The Fillin Station in Kilgore Texas.
What was the first record or cd you purchased with your own money?
Motley Crue "Girls, Girls, Girls"
What was the first live concert you attended?
Clay Walker in Sulphur Springs in 1998.
Which venue would you most like to play that you haven't yet/ and which is your favorite venue to play?
I love to play the RFT Rowdy Float Trip (www.radiofreetexas.org ), and it would be a lifetime dream to play Willie's Picnic. I'd also love to play Gruene Hall, like every other musician in Texas.
What is the best career advice you've been given, and by whom?
Cody Cannon of Whiskey Myers (www.whiskeymyers.com) told me "Don't be like anyone else."
Who are you listening to now?
Britt Lloyd (www.brittlloyd.com), the Slow Rollin' Lows, Forest Wayne Allen (www.forestwaynetrain.com), and Townes Van Zandt.
What is your best story about life on the road?
Tom, you were with us. The three day NE Texas Tour with Forest Wayne Allen, playing East Fork, Benny's Bar, and the Fillin' Station was a lot of fun. Drunk topless women on stage, tequila, whiskey, and opening for karaoke made it an unforgettable weekend.
What recordings are available to the public and where can they be purchased?
I have 2 self produced acoustic cds, they can be downloaded for free at www.gimmesound.com. Every download also earns a donation to the Make-a-wish Foundation.
When and where are you playing next?
I'm currently in pre-production for my first full band cd, and am starting to book shows around East Texas, while hoping to put together a weekend in the Austin area. You can check my schedule at www.rogercowanband.webs.com . I am playing with Aaron Navarro (www.aaronnaarro.com) at Lugnutz in Nacogdotches on Sept. 10.
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