KEEL Biography




::KEEL::

"The Right To Rock" still echoes the sentiments of a generation and remains one of the defining anthems of 80's Heavy Metal Music. And KEEL, the band that created it, is finally delivering what fans everywhere have been clamoring for: the KEEL Reunion. 2009 marks the band’s 25th anniversary, and the passing of twenty years since the classic KEEL lineup performed on stage together.

Ron Keel, guitarists Marc Ferrari and Bryan Jay, drummer Dwain Miller and bassist Geno Arce hit the ground running with their sold-out debut reunion show in Hollywood on January 31st.

Just like old times, things are happening fast and furious now that the Reunion is in full swing. KEEL has signed a recording contract with one of hard rock’s heaviest hitters – Maryland-based Chavis Records – with plans to release a new KEEL CD this summer; they are confirmed for a prime slot on the Main Stage at Rocklahoma 2009 as well as South Texas Rock Fest 2009; Universal is re-releasing their classic albums “The Final Frontier” and “KEEL” for download within the next few weeks; and they are being embraced by corporate sponsors such as Monster Energy Drinks.

In 1985, "The Right To Rock" became the fastest-selling debut album in A&M Record's history. The title track was a hit on radio & MTV and remains a staple on VH1 Classic, in addition to the group's subsequent hits "Tears Of Fire," "Because The Night," "Somebody's Waiting," and "Rock & Roll Outlaw." They developed a reputation as one of the genre's most entertaining live acts, opening for heavyweights like Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, Van Halen, and many others. KEEL sold over 2 million albums and was proclaimed Best New Band by Metal Edge Magazine, Circus Magazine, and Rock Scene.

"The magic is definitely still there," Ron proclaims. "verybody's playing and singing great, we're writing new material, and really enjoying working together again. We've still got the right to rock – but now we've got an additional 20 years of experience and maturity to back it up, and a real appreciation for each other and our place in rock history."

Despite numerous opportunities, Ron has resisted the pressure to perform as KEEL with a different line-up. "It would not have been right," expresses Ron. "Even though it was my last name, KEEL was a true band and I have always taken a stand against performing under that name with different musicians. I've had a number of bands in the years since, including Fair Game, IronHorse, and K2 – but there's only ever been one KEEL and without Bryan, Marc, and Dwain I wouldn't be doing this." The four original members are joined on stage by Ron's long-time bassist Geno Arce, who spent six years with him in IronHorse.

KEEL is documenting the entire experience on video for an upcoming 25th Anniversary DVD release. The band wants to thank the fans that have kept the dreams and the music alive, and will be sending out constant e-mail updates (get on the mailing list!) – keep an eye on the new web site http://keelreunion.com for breaking announcements, and the band will be posting blogs on the KEEL MySpace (http://myspace.com/keelband) whenever possible.

NEWS

JACKYL ADDED TO ROCKLAHOMA LINEUP

PRYOR, OK - Jackyl has been signed on to bring their "Wild and Untamed" brand of Rock to Pryor, Oklahoma Saturday Night at Rocklahoma.

Director of Operations Dave Giencke said, "After Thin Lizzy's cancellation, we wanted to bring in a band that has consistently been one of the fan favorites!" "Jackyl's energy and stage presence is like no other band who has ever performed at Rocklahoma and they promise to step up even more!"

Front Man Jessie James Dupree added, "I was equally disappointed that Thin Lizzy cancelled their tour. I am a huge fan of theirs and wanted to make it down to Rocklahoma see them perform. Since I was going to be there anyway and there’s an open slot, it made sense to have Jackyl perform." "Jackyl Stock 09, let's get it on!"... Read More...

THIN LIZZY CANCELS 2009 TOUR

PRYOR, OK - Irish Rock Band Thin Lizzy, known for hits "Jailbreak" and "The Boys Are Back In Town" cancelled their entire 2009 tour including Rocklahoma.

Thin Lizzy guitarist and main stay, Scott Gorham had this to say, "It's been a very tough time of late for myself and the band, firstly with drummer Tommy Aldridge's injury and now the subsequent decision for John and the rest of the group to go their separate ways. I can only apologize to everyone who has supported us over the years, but we will be back up to full speed soon!"

MISS ROCKLAHOMA 2009 TOP TEN FINALISTS ANNOUNCED

Vote for Your Favorite. The top ten finalists for the first annual Miss Rocklahoma contest have been announced and are posted... Read More...