Tower of Power at the Ridgefield Playhouse June 17! Learn more here
For 55 years, Tower of Power has been a powerhouse in funk and soul music. Emilio Castillo recalls the band’s origins as The Motowns, with members including Rocco on bass and his brother on drums. In 1968, Castillo invited “Doc” Kupka to audition, leading to their name change to Tower of Power, driven by a desire to play at the Fillmore Auditorium.
Castillo explains, “With a name like The Motowns, we knew we’d never get in there.” Embracing a hippie look, they began writing their own songs, which proved pivotal. After facing challenges playing nightclubs and being busted for underage drinking, the band faced a turning point when Castillo’s family moved to Detroit, leaving him broke and alone. He dedicated himself to rehearsing and writing songs for their debut album, East Bay Grease.
By November, Castillo declared he would leave if they didn’t secure an audition. Fortunately, they did, and the rest is history. East Bay Grease defined their sound, leading to a deal with Warner Brothers. Their 1972 debut, Bump City, became a hit on the Billboard 200 and R&B Albums chart, featuring classic tracks like “You’re Still A Young Man” and “Down to the Nightclub.” The 70s were a golden era for the band, producing enduring hits like “So Very Hard to Go” and “What Is Hip?” Their passion for performing remains strong, continuing to tour and record.
Tower of Power has exceeded Castillo’s early aspirations, touring globally and collaborating with legendary artists like Otis Redding, Elton John, Santana, and the Grateful Dead. They have cultivated a distinct “Oakland soul” sound that resonates alongside influences from Detroit and Philadelphia. Looking ahead, Tower of Power is poised for a dynamic future, ready to continue delivering their signature groove to fans worldwide.
Part of the Pepsi Rock Series Handcrafted by American Metal