John Cowan: The Voice, the Bass, and a Life of Musical Blessings

On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with John Cowan, a musician whose voice has been part of my own musical memory since I first heard New Grass Revival as a kid at the Georgia Mountain Fair in Hiawassee, Georgia.John and I talk about his early influences, from Paul McCartney and Duck Dunn to Leon Russell, and how he developed as both a singer and a bass player. We also dig into the specific challenge of singing lead while holding down the low end, especially when the bass part and vocal line are moving in different rhythmic directions.The conversation moves through John’s years with New Grass Revival, his deep admiration for Sam Bush’s rhythm, and the way bluegrass taught him the power of simplicity. John also reflects on finding his own voice after years of being able to imitate other singers, and how joining New Grass Revival forced him to become himself as a vocalist.We also talk about his work with The Doobie Brothers, his respect for Tiran Porter’s bass lines, singing harmony, working with Andrea Zonn, Luke Bulla, and The HercuLeons, and the gratitude that comes from a life spent standing beside remarkable musicians.Key Takeaways  • John reflects on the impact of New Grass Revival and how joining the band helped him discover his own voice.  • He talks about the challenge of singing lead while playing bass, especially when the bass line is syncopated.  • Paul McCartney, Duck Dunn, Leon Russell, Little Feat, Stevie Wonder, and Gregg Allman all shaped John’s early musical world.  • Playing bluegrass taught John the beauty and power of simplicity.  • John describes Sam Bush as one of the greatest rhythmic forces in bluegrass music.  • His role with The Doobie Brothers gives him the chance to honor Tiran Porter’s melodic and highly musical bass parts.  • John speaks openly about recovery, community, discipline, and the work of becoming a better person over time.Music from the Episode  Georgia Rhythm - John CowanDevil Woman - John CowanHold to a Dream - New Grass RevivalYou Plant Your Fields - New Grass RevivalTake Me to the Alley - The HerculeonsI'm Just Not Ready - John Cowan  About the PodcastThe Bandwich Tapes is a music interview podcast hosted by Brad Williams. Each episode features thoughtful conversations with musicians, songwriters, composers, producers, and artists about craft, collaboration, creative process, musical identity, and the way music actually gets made.Connect with the ShowEmail: [email protected]