Imagine a world where Darius Rucker, the voice behind Hootie & the Blowfish, jams with Mike Mills of R.E.M. and Steve Gorman from The Black Crowes. Sounds like a rock and roll fantasy, right? Well, it's real! They've formed a supergroup called Howl Owl Howl, and they're ready to shake things up. But here's the kicker: this isn't about chasing fame or fortune. It's purely about the love of music.
These rock veterans recently sat down for an exclusive chat on the Rolling Stone Music Now podcast, spilling the beans on their unlikely collaboration, their upcoming album, and even addressing the burning questions fans have about R.E.M.'s reunion chances and the future of Hootie & the Blowfish.
So, how did this supergroup come to life? It all started with a simple text message. Steve Gorman was scrambling to find a band for his kid's school fundraiser when Darius Rucker reached out. Rucker jumped at the opportunity, and then suggested bringing in Mike Mills. The chemistry was undeniable, and Howl Owl Howl was born!
Editor's note: It's fascinating how chance encounters and personal connections can lead to unexpected musical partnerships. This story highlights the importance of community and collaboration in the creative process.
Now, let's talk about the name. "Howl Owl Howl." It's definitely… unique. Apparently, Michael Stipe, R.E.M.'s frontman, came up with it. And at first, Gorman and Rucker hated it. Mills recalls sending them the name, fully expecting them to reject it immediately because of how weird it was. But as Gorman admits, within a couple of days, the name burrowed its way into his brain, and he couldn't shake it. Sometimes, the most unconventional ideas are the ones that stick!
Their debut single, "My Cologne," is another example of their quirky creativity. It was inspired by Ariana Grande's decision to launch a perfume called R.E.M. But this isn't a diss track. Mills emphasizes that it's all in good fun, a tongue-in-cheek tribute that he hopes Grande will find amusing. "Nobody's angry, nobody's hating," he said. "It’s supposed to be funny."
And this is the part most people miss... The song serves as a commentary on the commodification of art and celebrity, but with a lighthearted approach.
Speaking of R.E.M., let's address the elephant in the room: will they ever reunite? The answer, according to Mills, is a firm no. He explains that the band broke up because it was the right time, a decision they all came to independently. While they briefly shared the stage at the Songwriters Hall of Fame last year, Mills insists it wasn't a reunion, but rather a respectful gesture to the institution. He believes that performance only solidified their decision to disband.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some fans argue that even a one-off performance reignites hope for a full-fledged reunion, regardless of the band members' intentions. What do you think?
What about Hootie & the Blowfish? Rucker is surprisingly candid about his reluctance to tour with the band. He admits that past reunions were driven by fan demand, not necessarily his own desire. While they're slated to perform at Stagecoach this year, he suggests it might be a while before they hit the road together again, potentially not until he's well into his sixties.
Rucker has a new solo country album in the works, but his focus is currently on Howl Owl Howl. He finds the band dynamic more fulfilling than being a solo artist. "It’s just more satisfying," Rucker states. "Doing the country thing and being a solo artist is great, it’s cool. But man, when you get with a band that’s a real band… we’re a team, man, and that’s just awesome."
Mills also scrapped plans for a solo album, recognizing that his voice isn't suited for carrying an entire record. He prefers the collaborative process of working with friends and creating something together.
Howl Owl Howl plans to tour again once their album is released. They're committed to this project and excited to share their music with the world. "We’re all pretty sure that we’re gonna be doing this again," Rucker confirms.
Ultimately, Howl Owl Howl is a testament to the power of friendship, collaboration, and the sheer joy of making music. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the ones you do simply because you love them.
Now it's your turn! What do you think of this unlikely supergroup? Are you a fan of their sound? And do you believe R.E.M. should ever consider a reunion, even if just for one more album? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
