R.E.M., Hootie, Black Crowes Unite for Owl Howl Interview

Music legends Darius Rucker from Hootie & the Blowfish, Mike Mills of R.E.M., and Steve Gorman from The Black Crowes have formed a new supergroup called Howl Owl Howl. This collaboration has been in the making for five years, producing their debut single, “My Cologne.” Despite the album not being fully completed, the trio has decided to embark on a tour.

Origins of Howl Owl Howl

The supergroup’s formation traces back to a last-minute gig arrangement. Gorman recalls focusing on an artist for a fundraising event for his kid’s school when he faced a cancellation. Darius Rucker then joined in after receiving a text from Gorman, agreeing to sing at the event. Rucker proposed bringing Mike Mills into the mix, which led to exciting discussions about the group’s future.

Band Name and Inspiration

Initially, the name “Howl Owl Howl” presented a challenge. Michael Stipe proposed the name, which Gorman and Rucker initially disliked. However, as time passed, they embraced it, and the name grew on them.

The single “My Cologne” draws inspiration from Ariana Grande’s R.E.M. perfume line. Mills hopes she appreciates the tongue-in-cheek nature of the song.

Career Reflections and Future Plans

Mills clarifies that there are no plans for an R.E.M. reunion. He believes the band’s breakup was a mutual and necessary decision. Although they performed together briefly for the Songwriters Hall of Fame, he does not view it as a full reunion.

Darius Rucker expresses mixed feelings about touring with Hootie & the Blowfish. He prioritizes his new project and feels more satisfied collaborating with Mills and Gorman. Rucker also has a solo country album nearing completion but focuses on Howl Owl Howl for now.

Looking Forward

• Howl Owl Howl plans to continue touring after the album release.
• Rucker indicates the band dynamic is exciting and fulfilling.
• Mills enjoys collaboration over solo work, emphasizing the joy of working with friends.

The musicians are united not just in goal but in their desire to create music because they love it. They invite fans to join them on this new journey with Howl Owl Howl.