Randy Bowles at Simply Desserts
Here at Comics Grinder, we not only love pop culture but we dig deeper–all the way to its roots. With musician Randy Bowles, I have a friend who can share insights into the Sixties from a unique perspective. As a co-founder of Yakima, Washington’s Velvet Illusions (1966-67), Bowles found himself in a catbird seat to view and participate in his generation’s journey through identity, rebellion, and so much more. It was the beginning of a career in music that would take him in many directions.
Randy Bowles of the Velvet Illusions
Ultimately, Randy Bowles carved a niche for himself in folk music and he’s remained active in that, and general storytelling, ever since. You can enjoy his special brand of insight at his WordPress blog right here. We became friends through the WordPress community and it just goes to show you yet another benefit of being part of WordPress.
The Velvet Illusions (1966-67)
Getting back to Randy, an important thing to know is that he was in this cool band, The Velvet Illusions, and then he went on to other cool bands and his own solo work. As for Velvet Illusions, listen for yourself and you’ll find a fun and steady beat. Here they are singing the Velvet Illusions theme:
In our recent chat, we discuss the Sixties for a bit and mainly focus on fashion. Bowles provides some insight on the passions and interests of the Sixties generation: what was homegrown versus what was manufactured to sell to a mainstream audience.
Randy Bowles is a good guy. I look forward to sharing more with you in the future!
Cool song!
Yeah, it is!
Great piece Henry, look forward to hearing more about Randy!
Thanks, Chris. Great fun talking with Randy.
Can’t tell if that song belongs in a spy film or a horror – could see it working in either. 😀
Cool sound. I’d lean more toward spy thriller.
Don’t know if it matters, but I should have specified B-horror from the 50’s. Otherwise, yes, I suppose I’d go with Spy Thriller first. 😀
True. Either way!
Well, here, check this out. Some young people made a really cool video out of it using vintage East German sci-fi footage. Let’s see if WordPress let’s me put the link here. — Randy Bowles
Yes! Sci-Fi is the way to go!
Wait, is it me or did that video kinda story-board The Martian. The guy at 1:02 – 1:05 looked like he was being stranded on that planet by his friends…
I think you’re on to something!
An interesting man. The song took me back – I grew up in the 60s – and it has a real 60s feel to it. You’re right about how WordPress brings people together. Great isn’t it?! 🙂
Yes, what a delight to chat with Randy. And we can thank WordPress.
Henry, it was great fun eating the World’s Best Cake with you, and talking about all kinds of things — some fun, some quite serious. I’m glad to have been a part of the revolution, not just in fashion and music, but in women’s rights, civil rights — human rights in general. And I had a great time when it was all taking place.:) I look forward to more conversations with you, and I am excited about pairing my words and your great drawing, in the future!
Indeed, good times ahead. We are well on our way.
Henry Chamberlain I enjoyed your interview with Randy Bowles. I lived in Yakima and attended the same high school as Randy. I went to some local dances where The Velvet Illusions performed in the late 60’s. Back in those days we had live bands for the high school dances. I have Randy’s new Lp album and I really like the music.
Hi Linda! What a treat to get this message from you! I’m so happy that you enjoyed the interview. We’ll share more in the future.
Thanks so much, Linda! You are so excellent.
Henry I liked the interview with Randy. I played in the Velvet Illusions with Randy in the late 60’s when I was 15 years old.He keeps me up to date on our old recordings. Great Friend with a lot of talent.
Wow, Danny. I’m so glad to have you comment here. I’m sure you guys had a great time. I’d be curious to hear about your take on things.
Thank you, my brother!
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