Yesterday, Bill Capozzi finally put the the fork in his time with the band. After 13 years and over a thousand gigs it was time for him to call it done. We knew for a while the change was coming so it was no surprise. Still, it is cause for some reflection.
Mikey and I started with the Houndogs, the group that evolved into CA3 and eventually theRockin45s in 2001. Mikey was still in his 30’s, although not by much. Bill was not an original member of CA3 but came in very shortly after the band formed. Mike Barone came on board about a year later. All in all the core of the band has put in 12 years while Mikey and I are at the 15 year mark. That’s a lot longer than most bands last. Timothy B Schmit says that all bands are on the verge of breaking up at all times. I think there’s truth in that.
Over the course of 15 years, we’ve all changed in many ways. None of the band are with the same women we were when we started. We’ve seen relationships and marriages come and go. We’ve all moved at least once and most of us several times. We’ve seen out kids grow up and even had some of our family of subs pass away. We’ve seen several of our loyal fans and good friends pass in that time. What a long strange trip it’s been.
In the Last Waltz, Robbie Robertson was reflecting on the Band having spent 16 years on the road. “It’s a Goddamned impossible way of life”. It is that. Rather than looking back and calling it a career though, some of are still hungry for the escape from the world for that 4-hour journey into mayhem that is a Rockin45s gig.We’re looking straight down the barrel of another season of beach gigs and outdoor parties, and surprises and laughs that make the long and winding road worth the trip.
We hope you’re getting ready for Summer 2016. It’s going to be a wild ride!