Dennis DeYoung, the legendary keyboard player and singer of the iconic rock band Styx, has always been a man of many words. In a recent interview, he shared his thoughts on his musical journey, the band's history, and his final albums, offering a unique perspective that is both insightful and thought-provoking. DeYoung's story is a testament to the power of music and the enduring legacy it can leave behind.
A Musical Journey
DeYoung's passion for music began with a desire to emulate the keyboard virtuosos of the time, such as Jon Lord of Deep Purple and the members of Emerson, Lake & Palmer. He was drawn to the progressive rock scene, which allowed keyboard players to showcase their skills in a way that guitar players often couldn't. This fascination with progressive rock influenced the sound of Styx, but DeYoung was quick to clarify that they were never a fully-fledged prog band. Instead, they were a hybrid, blending elements of progressive rock with more traditional rock 'n' roll.
The Label of 'Pomp Rock'
In the 1970s, Styx was labeled as 'pomp rock' by some critics. DeYoung acknowledged that this label could be subjective, as rock critics often had a challenging task in describing music that was both organic and soul-stirring. However, he also noted that the term 'pomp rock' was often used to dismiss bands that had a more grandiose or theatrical sound, which was a common criticism of Styx.
The End of an Era
Styx broke up in 1983 after the release of their poorly received concept album 'Kilroy Was Here'. DeYoung was part of a reunion in 1990, but he was controversially replaced by a new member in 2003 when he was unable to tour due to a medical condition. This event left a bitter taste in DeYoung's mouth, and he has never been one to hold a grudge. However, he has made it clear that he doesn't believe he needs to forgive the current Styx line-up for their actions.
26 East: A Farewell to Music
DeYoung's final albums, '26 East, Vol. 1' and '26 East, Vol. 2', are a testament to his enduring love for music. At 73 years old, his voice still stands up magnificently, and the albums offer a blend of nostalgia and new sounds. The title track, '26 East', is a song that DeYoung wrote with Jim Peterik of Survivor, and it marked the beginning of a new chapter in his musical journey.
To The Good Old Days
One of the most intriguing aspects of DeYoung's final albums is the duet 'To The Good Old Days' with Julian Lennon, the son of John Lennon. DeYoung shared that he had never met Lennon, but he was thrilled when Lennon responded to his email and agreed to collaborate on the song. The duet is a beautiful reminder of the sweetest days of DeYoung's past with his fans, friends, family, and forgiveness.
A Musical Legacy
Despite the controversy surrounding his departure from Styx, DeYoung remains focused on the music. He believes that the music is bigger than any individual, and he is content with the legacy he has left behind. If people are still getting what they need from his music in 50 years' time, he will be very happy.
In conclusion, Dennis DeYoung's story is a testament to the power of music and the enduring legacy it can leave behind. His final albums are a beautiful reminder of his musical journey and the impact he has had on the world of rock 'n' roll. As he looks back on his career, he remains focused on the music and the joy it brings to his fans.
