April 08
Steve Howe
April 8, 1947. Tomorrow joined with guitarist and backing vocalist Steve Howe to release their self titled psychedelic debut in early 1968. This transition into the seventies began as he contributed his skills as the lead guitarist for Bodast before finding a permanent home with Yes. Replacing Peter Banks, he made his first appearance on The Yes Album, where his use of the acoustic guitar and electric hollow body defined a new progressive sound. Throughout the decade, he remained a central figure in the band, appearing on every studio release and contributing to the expansive compositions of Fragile and Close to the Edge.
As the lead guitarist and backing vocalist, he also performed on the triple live album Yessongs while touring extensively. His work with Yes continued through 1981, briefly pausing for a solo career. Beyond his primary group, he participated as a session guitarist for Lou Reed and worked with the duo of James Taylor and Carly Simon. His versatility on the steel guitar, lute, mandolin, and dobro allowed him to enhance various studio recordings. During the late seventies, he remained an official member through the Tormato era before the group initially disbanded. He eventually helped form the supergroup Asia as their lead guitarist and backing vocalist in 1981.
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Mel Schacher
April 8, 1951. Melvin George Schacher joined Question Mark and the Mysterians as their bassist before finding major fame. He soon helped form Grand Funk Railroad as an official founding member in 1968. His aggressive, distorted style on the bass guitar became a cornerstone of their heavy blues rock sound.
As the bassist, he remained a core fixture with the group from 1968 to 1977, from 1980 to 1981, and again from 1996 to 2026. He contributed to every classic studio album and appeared on the influential live recording from 1971. Following the initial band breakup, he collaborated on the Flint project. He continues to perform as an official member on the current Still Shinin On Tour.
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