Outrider - "Cool Hands, Warm Heart" - Lost AOR Treasure from 1985
This story is a heartfelt tribute to a time gone by, where every detail about the band Outrider, their epic tours, and thrilling career is entirely fictional. But we’re pretty sure these fictional guys would have dreamed of a tour like that. Rest assured, no one was harmed during the making of this photoshoot or the recording!
In 1985, Outrider emerged from the arid deserts of Tucson, Arizona, with a fierce determination to conquer the world of rock. The four members—frontman Jake “J.D.” Dawson (vocals), Tommy Nash (guitar), Mick Rivers (bass), and Jimmy Cortez (drums)—grew up immersed in the hard-working blue-collar ethic of their hometown. Fueled by a shared passion for music and the dream of becoming superstars, they packed their bags and headed west to Los Angeles.
Their relentless work ethic and undeniable talent quickly caught the attention of Nightstar Management, run by industry veteran Mark "Madman" Stevens. With his help, Outrider secured a deal with the smaller but well-respected label Rockhammer Records in 1983. That same year, they released their debut album, a raw collection of nine tracks inspired by early British AOR, reminiscent of Def Leppard’s early sound. Though the album didn’t produce a major radio hit, it became a cult favorite, beloved by fans for its authenticity and energy. Tracks like "Edge of Fire" and "Wasteland Heart" gave the band a distinct identity, but their slightly longer, non-commercial songs prevented them from cracking the mainstream radio market.
Despite the album’s modest success, Outrider's live shows became legendary. Their 1984 tour, dubbed the Rising Flames Festival with White Sister, Jeff Paris, and Prophet, saw them playing to crowds of up to 10,000 people. The chemistry between Jake's charismatic vocals and Tommy’s electrifying guitar solos, backed by Mick’s steady bass grooves and Jimmy’s thunderous drumming, made them a fan favorite. They were frequently compared to White Sister and hailed as the next big thing in AOR.
Their moment almost came in 1985 when they brushed the Billboard Top 100, peaking at 114 with their second album, Highway 61, a record that took their sound in a more refined, radio-friendly direction. Though they fell just short of a major breakthrough, the rock press in Britain, Germany, Japan, and the U.S. praised the album. Outrider was hailed as one of the most promising bands in the genre, and Jake Dawson was seen as a future superstar.
The band’s relentless touring and creative output began to take a toll, however. By the time they released their third album, Desert Sky, in 1987, they were struggling to find the time and energy to write the next big hit. While the album contained solid tracks like "Chasing the Wind" and "Broken Promises", it lacked the polish of its predecessor. When they moved to a new label, Neon Records, in 1989 and tried to toughen their sound on their fourth album, Black Thunder, the change didn’t resonate with fans. Outrider disbanded in 1990, having never quite reached the heights their early potential had suggested.
The members went their separate ways: Jake pursued a solo career and became a beloved session singer, often mentioned for his deep, soulful voice. Tommy found success as a producer in Nashville, working with many top artists. Mick and Jimmy continued to play as session musicians, lending their talents to other up-and-coming rock acts.
Today, Outrider’s legacy lives on, particularly their iconic Highway 61 album, which has become a collector’s item, and the single "Cool Hands, Warm Heart" still spins on rock radio. Fans continue to celebrate the band for their genuine, hard-hitting rock and their relentless dedication to the craft.
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