SOUTHWIND

This is the official Southwind myspace web page. It is not run by fans as some had thought. The site was put up after recent interest in the band and their music.
A close friend helps run this site.
Southwind emerged on the Youngstown, Ohio Rock 'n Roll Scene in early 1973. The band played continuously, every weekend & many weekdays, averaging about 120 or more shows a year, while still holding down regular day jobs and/or being in school. At one point, they were playing 5 nights a week. A lot of time was spent playing the local clubs, dances & concert circuit while other weekends found the guys on the road touring Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York State.



Not only did you get to hear a lot of rock 'n roll music when you came to see the band, you got to see an outstanding stage show. Their performance incorporated the use of costumes and dressing, smoke/fog machines, flash pods, lights (inclusing a follow spot), drum riser with lights, a huge Southwind backdrop curtain that measured about 35 x 15 ft. ( not able to be used everywhere do to the size), and even a bubble machine. Some of the members used wireles transmitters which allowed them to walk through the crowd, which was very rare & costly in those days. It took a 3 man road crew four hours to set up the band's equipment, lights, effects, and massive sound system before the show. They had done some recording in the studio, but it is unfortunate that they were so busy they never opted to pursue a record label. Except for a short break up between 1977- 1979, the band finally called in quits for good in early 1984.



Rick has relocated to Texas and stays semi-involved in the music business. Steve is writing & collaborating with others on some music projects. Tom has been involved with music and has played with some local bands. Rich also has been involved locally with music and some bands. John now has his own sound company and has done work ranging from national acts, concerts, & corporate events.



There were some musician line up changes over the years.we felt we should mention those who also played with the band. Some for a short time, others for actually a longer time then some members here.



The original members were Rick Strupkus on vocals, Steve Kukura on bass guitar, Tom Koczwara on Lead guitar John Lomax on lead guitar, and Greg Tomasco on drums. (Greg was only with us for a few jobs). Bill Morehead then beacme the original drummer back. Bill then left after college and was replaced with Rich Balik on drums and Bob Turanyi replaced John Lomax on guitar.
Later Steve Padenich replaced Tom Kozcwara for a few years.
After a short break up the band reformed with Rick, Steve, Tom, Rich & added John Durisko on 2nd guitar. Tom left for other projects and was replaced by Mark Chuey. Rich left and was replaced with Vince DeMarco on drums.
At one time Mike Damiano was a keyboard player ( this was towards the end of the band for a few jobs.)
A note te on the songs that are on here. These were recorded in 1979, so you can tell that the quality of the recording does not match up to todays CD's or even what I personally do in my home studio. They were uploaded from cassette tape that I have. So, I know the sound is not that great. We are in the process of looking into getting them digitally Remastered.