by Lucas Capobianco
The Outlaws were an influential player in the southern rock scene. Formed in 1972 in Tampa, Florida, the Outlaws were known by their fans as “the Florida Guitar Army.” The band was famous for their triple-guitar rock attack and three-part country harmony. My favorite song by the Outlaws is their cover of “(Ghost) Riders in the Sky.” This is a more rock-heavy version of the song. I enjoy the way the band combines country lyrics with rock and roll accompaniment. This group toured with bands such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Who, and the Eagles. Even with the tragic deaths of the founding members, the Outlaws continue to produce music to this day. The Outlaws formed over 40 years ago and they are still making the same kind of music for the same people. The Outlaws are a group who created a successful brand of music in a competitive time. They made it and continue to give their fans the music that they crave.
A majority of the famous music that came out in the 1970s and 1980s were traditional rock and roll bands. The time was about living large; the post-Vietnam war period was a very unique period where people felt free. Unfortunately, living freely is sometimes dangerous. Many bands experienced deaths due to overdose. In addition, many rock stars felt depressed after losing their fame. The Outlaws were particularly affected by these factors. In 1995, guitarist Billy Jones killed himself at age 45. This action shook the band and it devastated bassist Frank O’keefe. A couple of weeks after Jones’ death, O’keefe died of a multiple drug overdose. Although this band’s popularity fell and members of their band died, they continued to make music. They released a new album called It’s all about Pride in 2012. This band is currently still together and I doubt anything but death will stop them from making music.
The Outlaws are an epic southern band. Their music combines the rock and roll of the ’70s with a southern singer. If that’s not enough, the band mashes 3 guitars together. While the thought of a band with 3 guitars sounds hectic, they found a way to make their music work. Their triple guitar style is the most unique part of their band. This band was at its most famous in the 1970s and 1980s. The Outlaws came to Suny Geneseo on November 18, 1981. The price of admission at the time was $6.50. At the time, Geneseo paid $1,000.00 to get this band to play at the school. After listening to this band I wish I could have seen them in concert. Their music is electric and fun. I could see myself in a mosh pit going crazy as they took turns on their guitar solos. Although I missed my chance to see them in 1981 I encourage you to check out the songs “Green Grass and High Tides” and their cover of “(Ghost) Riders in the Sky.”