Barry's Guestbook and Replies

Carolyn Hartley from Mobile, AL wrote on January 18. 1999,17:31
I was a Cowsill fan more years ago than I care to remember. I have pictures that I took at a concert in Pensacola, FL in about 1971. I have a closeup of Barry doing his Mick Jagger imitation, wearing red longjohns, a feather boa, and an "Uncle Sam" hat.
Some of the best memories I have of those days have a Cowsills soundtrack. I'm so pleased to have discovered that members of the family are still performing, especially Barry...! had a huge crush on him for years!

Carolyn Hartley - consider it just yesterday and don't age yourself so accordingly to they years gone by. Again remember, time is a trick - it was only yesterday that you saw me... even though I don't think I'd fit into the red longjohns anymore. Besides I've become more of a Keith than a Mick these days. I'm grate full for the good memories - Its been a pleasure. And just one more thing - no matter what are we may all be now, we're really still 18 at heart. . . "and we like it".


Becky from KS wrote on January 18. 1999,22:35
I've enjoyed As Is more than I even expected. Great work!!! Hoping we can make a Cowsilll Marathon in Barry's neck of the woods in the next couple years and hear Barry play live.

Becky - Thank you for the complement and there's way more of that commin' - so hang in, it's just a matter of time until it happens.


Jo (Rieder) Malone from Philly wrote on January 18. 1999,23:40
Great website so far Barry!! Oh and one hell of a CD you have too!! I am really fond of it's diversity in sound... my faves are Bombay and the O! Timeless (can't get much more diverse than that), but they are all great... I feel there should be as much Cowsill music as possible in the world... whether it needs it or not... can't wait to see and hear more!! Jo

Jo (Rieder) Malone - hey Joe - where you goin' with that gun in your hand? jus' kiddin' - My brain's bustin' with tunes and through the rest of my life I hope to be spewing as many different styles and recording methods with the "yes there is hope" philosophy that I hold dear to my heart. As red skeleton would say, "good night, and God bless". sincerely Klem Kadillehopper


Bettyanne from lot's of places, now, S.W. Fla ... wrote on January 19, 1999, 02:09
Hi; I am sure you will not really be reading this e-mail, but "what the heck". I will be sending this to you anyway. I was a "Cowsill fan", all those year's ago... when we all younger... Yes, I was a "fan" of your's... Life, has given all of us, some different road's to follow.. I hope that life is good to you, and your family... I want the same for mine, also... Wishing you the best ... Bettyanne Helfenstein

Bettyanne - What do you mean, " .. Surely not be answering this"? ... my ass! And by the way, don't buy into your recent age - keep it young, your children will appreciate it ... You're telling ME life has given us different roads to travel (Oy! Mishugina!) Wishing you the best too, honey. We're all on the same planet anyway!


Rose from Naperville, IL wrote on February 4. 1999,14:32
I just wanted to let you know how much happiness you and your family brought me all those years ago. I don't know how I would have gotten through those difficult teen years without your music as well as looking forward to the latest copy of 16 and other magazines to read about you. You gave me plenty of "daydream" material! I had a huge crush on you and will always have a special place in my heart for you. I'll never forget meeting you in Indiana and Illinois. I cherish the pictures and autographs. Your music never failed to lift my spirits, even on the worst days. So, thanks. Can't wait to hear the new C.D.

Rose - If there's one thing that did come out of all this in a positive form that makes me feel good, (not that I didn't want to be tap dancing on Ed Sulivan, thank you very much) is the fact that our music back then affected a wonderful positive remembrance device i.e. in essence, some of you were getting your first kiss in a back seat of a car while Rain, the Park, and Other Things was playing on the radio in the front seat. It was nice to be the background sound for the good times that you notorious teenagers were having at the time - and that's the one thing I have enjoyed about being with the Cowsills to this day. I hope you hear the new CD - I've died and resurrected at least 7 times since the Rain, the Park, and Other Things, so you got a whole new person here with the CD. Hope you enjoy the many people I've become since.


Connie Carty from Pennsylvania wrote on February 5. 1999,11:22
So Barry, I've been waiting since December 17th for you to mail your CD to me. What's the hold up? I'm hearing great things about it. On another note, any plans to tour on the east coast soon? Love to hear your music again. Thanks for all the great memories and great songs!
Love ya, Connie:)

Connie Carty - Yeah I know, sometimes the mail messes up - it's not a perfect universe... or else... how could it be a perfect universe without being slightly imperfect.


Tiffany from L.A. wrote on February 5. 1999,12:17 Just saying "Hi"....and making sure this is working. Great site!!

Tiffany - Jus' sayin' Lo ... and behold. 'tis working lass! Hope to see you soon.


Cindi from northwest Ohio wrote on February 5. 1999,17:47
Barry, Barry, Barry!
So, after getting your cd, I found that I was surprised to "hear" that you have grown up! I enjoyed you all those years ago as a member of The Cowsill band, and now as an adult. It is cool to see that your music has grown with you'. The site is comfy, and it will be fun to see it grow. Thanks for the memories, and for the future memories that you will be giving to all of us!

Cindi - First your body inflates from childhood, and then after 18 years, the miracle is... your brain inflates. It's up to the individual as to how far and how close to the edge they want their brain to inflate. Well, I've been an edger for quite some time, never fell over and the stuff your hearing on the CD is the product of that curious tenacity of mine. Thanks for enjoying. Yes, there is more on the way. Pizza, Pizza!


Jim Conway from Louisville, KY wrote on February 5. 1999,21:20
I love AS IS, especially "My Car Don't Lock,"... great pick up line for the ages. You know "Don't Look Back" has been one of my favorite songs ... ever. It's a very deep song for a teenager to write ... I've always wanted to hear Crosby, Stills, and Nash cover that one. PLEASE, keep the music coming!

Jim Conway - Hey, Thanks. Hope your car don't lock either. I wrote Don't Look Back (my first song actually) when I was into Crosby, Stills, and Nash, I can't see them doing it in the future, so I'll make a new version as close to CSN as I can get it - cause I'm a good vocal rip-off artist. Thanks for the complement.


Jeana from Oregon wrote on February 6. 1999,05:09
Barry, saw your family perform in 1970. Was a very special day in my life. Can't wait till you post where we can see you perform (so we can support you). It would be nice if you'd share update photos of yourself, (its been along time since we have seen you) and maybe your family? Whatever you would like to share about the last 20 some years of your life, where you've been, what you have learned. We would love for you to share if you feel comfortable. May the Lord bless you in your professional & person life.

Jeana - Thank you for thanking me for the memories. I'm starting to feel like Bob Hope here. As for my trials and tribulations for the past 20 years... well... that's gonna take a while for me to settle down and write about it. But one thing I will drop by you way, is the bridge jump in Van Couver, BC. It's actually a dark comedy, very funny. But I'll get to that down the road sometime when I have more time - along with all the other crazy shit that went down with me. Thank you for your input.


Salia from Raleigh, NC wrote on February 7. 1999,01:19
Correction, more than 10 people have signed the guestbook, but it wasn't registering. This is my 3rd attempt now. Hi Barry! Glad to see this site making progress! Okay, My name is Salia Lanoza. I am from North Carolina, (born and raised) Have been a Cowsill fan ever since the 5th grade when I was scanning 16 magazines for Davy Jones things. Saw your pictures and thought you looked like a fun family to get to know. Heard "We Can Fly" later on the radio, and instantly loved it. Bought the "We Can Fly" album and was hopelessly hooked! I must say, your family was certainly interesting to learn about. It was like each month we'd receive more pieces of your puzzles to assemble so as to figure out what you were really like. Half the challenge of "meeting you guys" was to see just how acccurate we were in guessing your personalities. (At least it was for me.) Then, without warning, you guys dropped off the face of the earth. (Or so it seemed.) So it is sooo nice to have these web-sites available to get "reaquainted" with you guys. Here's hoping you lots of success, contentment and a sense of fulfillment in the coming years, Barry

Salia - So, your 15 trying to match up personalities with Sixteen Magazine. Uh... Here it is in a nutshell: we were a Navy Catholic family, some of us born in a Newport Naval Hospital (the others in Norfolk, VA Naval Hospital) and Susan, born in Canton, OH, home of Brian Warner (a.k.a. Marlyn Manson) we probably have a little more in common with Jim Morrison and him than the Osmonds - though I think that Donny and Marie are absolutely charming for rich Mormons (just kidding Donny). Believe me, whatever, we're real with a slight tendency to be ever so slightly wacko and Blahhhhh!


Rosanne from Morganton, NC wrote on February 11. 1999,22:25
It worked! Here's what I wanted to say: Barry, after all these years it was truly a thrill to get your CD. My favorite songs are "Anthem," "Legends of Love," and "River of Love." Let us know where you are performing, and when, and I know all of us will do our best to support you and your music, as we always have. Keep up the good work! It's been worth the wait

Rosanne - Those three songs you mentioned are the basis of my philosophy: that life can suck at times, but as Richard Harris said in Camelot (as King Arthur) "song sparkles do shine". Don't give up hope, after all here and gone IS nothing but and evil trick we play.


Michelle from Dallas, Texas wrote on February 12. 1999,19:06
Whoa. I'm glad this site is finally here. Barry Cowsill is the MAN. I'm seventeen (almost) and I have to tell you, kids my age dig the Barry sound. I bring "As Is" to school and listen to it during English class and my friends all think it rocks... And they're right. You're the man Barry. Keep rocking til you're a hundred. Love Michelle

Michelle - Your universal taste in real rock-and-roll belies your almost 17 years of age (by the way, if you've had your birthday... Happy Birthday). You must be an old soul. From a fan or a fan, you'll be hearin' more and thanks for the input.


Barb from Colorado, orginally the Midwest wrote on February 13. 1999,02:08
Wow. After all these years. I can't believe it. Since the first time I heard you, you've been always in my mind. Haven't heard your latest, but maybe someday. Wish I could see your eyes, though, Barry. I always thought we were "kindred spirits". :-) Just don't tell my husband! LOL! God's blessings to you and your wife and kids, however many you may have! Love you!

Barb - I'm as kindred as they get, and I made d***sure I would become kindred. Sometimes I have to wear shades so I don't scare children with my eyes now days. But my mind is full of kindness and love - especially for everyone who is supporting this CD. It matters - believe me. Bless you and Round the Bend.


Joe from Robinson, IL (southeastern part of IL) wrote on February 13. 1999,21.40
Barry-This is my third attempt to get in, but maybe the third time is the charm, eh??? I just wanted to let you know how much I have loved you and your siblings all these years. Even through the lean years of the seventies and eighties I searched and searched for any bits of info I could find. Then lo and behold I got my WebTV terminal in July, found the families web site and started catching up with all of you and bought AS IS in September. Your new CD is fantastic. Not only does it contain a wide range of music, you sound as though you were born doing every kind!!! I love every track, but my favorites are "Another Was a Brother" (with Austin and New Orleans mentioned I wonder if you could have been writing about Bill and Susan) and "When Hearts Collide" (love that Mellotron and what a soulful message!!!). I listen to everything you wrote and performed with the rest of the C's from the past "Mister Flynn", "Dont Look Back", "There Was a Child" and "Dover Mine(s)" are my favorites of your penned and co-penned songs from back then but I have to say this album is your best work yet. It is in my player nearly as much as GLOBAL!!! Still I'll never forget your command of the stage. Do you still do your Jagger impression? Saw and met you and the family in Terre Haute, IN in 1970 at the Vigo County Fair at the Wabash Valley Fairgrounds. You probably don't remember but you called me a ham...teehee!!! Am dying to see you perform again!!! Any chance of an appearance (or two, or three or.... well, you get the picture!!!) in Illinois or Indiana? In any case you are alright in my book, kiddo!!!! Hope to hear more from you!!! My best to you and your family!!! ! Love ya, Joe

Joe - Wonderful Cyber-universe we finally created. I was concerned for the population of the world for a while so I wrote Monsanto a letter requesting that they might run tests on a new inflatable continent so we'd have someplace else to discover and explore - well the cheap b******* wouldn't go for it (rubber was to expensive with the addition of trees and earth and mountains) so I canned the concept of a new continent only to find the new universe is finger touched and eyeballs away from a screen. What do ya know... SCIENCE!


Anna from FL wrote on February 19. 1999,20:50
Do you remember? Constellation Avenue in Middletown. (1960 or 1961?) I was sitting on your front porch. You accidently pushed me off. I had to get stitches.
Ed Sullivan Show - 1969 - My mom - Jenny- called your Mom - backstage.
Anna (Sissy)

Ann - It might have been Paul. He pushed me one time and I accidentally hit a pile of dog doo. Almost barfing all the way home till I washed it off. However, if it was me, I hope your mom was fast enough to get you to the doctor before you fell into shock. And I hope he gave you lollipop to make you feel better on the way home. AHHHHH! Middletown. Fantastic memories.


Sandy S from Boston (now in VA) wrote on February 21. 1999, 14:03
As usual, I find myself wondering how I got somewhere. Upon seeing a photo of one of my ex's at http://cowsill.com/cowsills I thought I'd say hi to you and Debbie. To authenticate myself, what sane person would admit they are one of A.J. Wachtel's (hey,wanna guzzle a keg or 5 with me?) ex-girlfriends? ACK! I'm sober many years now and have my regrets.

I remember a beautiful 3-day, 3-state wedding in RI (MA & NH) on the summer solstice of'86 or '87. I held to the sun your wedding presant from Debbie (a gold-top?) at the designated minute. Debbie said that would bring special qualties to your union and music. I hear you are still married and have children,hot d***,it worked! That presant was one of the toughest secrets I've ever kept, she told me about it weeks ahead of time. If you look on the video of that day, I'm (poorly) singing "Helpless", I believe Susan gracefully tried to rescue the performance by lending her beautiful harmonies to it. Debbie told me that the song was perfect, because that's how you made her feel when she's with you, helpless. She had to go back and DJ the next day and we listened to her on the radio has she introduced herself for the first time as Debbie Scott-COWSILL. I'll stop now, you were there!

Should either of you care to drop me an e-mail, I'd love to hear from you. Hi to Susan, too, please. I'll never forget driving over a bridge or two with that woman ! She's a hot ticket. It's great to see you're still recording, keep up the great work, it seems cyberspace loves you all dearly.

Sincerely, Sandy S.

Sandy S - Deb says hi. Collin's 8, Keira's 10, AJ called last week, I tried to get him down in New Orleans but his son Harrington's got him by the daddy heartstrings. He's 5, I believe. So, I guess he'll be there till Harringtons gone to college. We still guzzle a brewsky over the phone long distance on new years. Love Barry and Deb and the kids.


Suzanne from Mass. wrote on February 23, 1999, 22:36
I'm very happy you put this CD out and I listen to it often. I'm happier that things in your life seem better for you, you must have a great wife and family. Keep playing, writing and do another CD! I have been a fan since I was 13. I met you a few times and we spent several hours behind the South Shore Music Circus in Cohasset, MA when we were both about 13 (you were inside, I was outside!) I gave you all these posters I had made and you brought them into the station wagon as your family left and yes, it is me, the one who you said you'd take me out to eat when you got your license and could drive up to Marlboro, MA!! Well.....I'm still waiting!! (Just teasing here.) I went on to become a professional dancer, performing in Boston, NYC and LA for quite a while and I now have a dance studio and a kids dance co. Last year I put a piece to HAIR on my kids co. and it was their favorite thing to do. I based it on the TV special scene you guys did, I remembered it pretty well, costuming and those wigs!! Everyone commented on hearing your song everywhere we went. It was really nice to hear it on these amazing sound systems and so many people said "I remember them.......I wonder where they are now", and really enjoyed your music, etc.
When I was a kid I was often lost, very emotionally distanced and verbally abused by a parent along with a brother of mine who eventually committed suicide at age 22 but not for those reasons. Your music was often a life-saver. Thanks for being there for me and others and I'm sure, as an artist who understands the healing the arts provides, your music has also helped to heal you. I might be choreographing to O! Timeless as a solo piece for myself. It is hauntingly beautiful and I like music that is different, interesting and compelling to listen to. It has to make me "feel" something to use it, to become the music which a dancer should do.
Thanks for giving us more of yourself in the 90s, for your CD and for using your wonderful own name once again. AND I'd still accept your dinner invitation!! Bring Debbie! I an flying to LA this summer as a Guest Teacher at a dance camp in the valley somewhere, I lived not far from where Bob lives now for most of the 80s, though I am back in Mass. now. (And hating the cold!) So, if you feel "brave" (I am harmless) contact me at _____ or _________. I would welcome and love the opportunity to talk with you once again and hopefully see you perform.
Thank you Barry.

Suzanne - I'm flattered. O! Timeless came out of the blue, through me. The muse was on my side that day. It took 15 minutes to write. And still when I listen to it I thank that muse, cause I usually get tired of hearing the stuff I write without the muse. And I'm very interested in seeing, you dance. And the kids you teach. If you could, I would appreciate video of this. If you want you can send it to the PO BOX on the order page. And you can bet if we go out to dinner, Debbie is coming. You'd absolutely love her. Keep the dance moving. That's one of life's special gifts. Thanks for being you. Signed - being me.


TERRI from TEXAS. wrote on February 25, 1999, 16:46
This is really cool!

TERRI - Thanks man ... or lady, I appreciate that more than you know.


Kelli Shanahan from Illinois, now Michigan wrote on March 1, 1999, 12:24
You never came to my home-town fair in 1970, didn't you get my letter inviting you?

Kelli Shanahan - no ten secretaries did at the Cowsill fan club in Hollywood. But I'll take a rain check if your serious. Any offers financially worth the trip will be worth the trip. I got a wife and kids to feed. And I sure am tired of painting barns.


sherrie wendel from Brigham, Utah signed the guestbook on March 2, 1999, 00:21


sherrie wendel - Brigham, Utah eh?.... Send some of your buttered scones to my P.O.Box (address is on the order page). I'll trade you a copy of Arrrrrrrr me bucko.


normaK from dallas, tx wrote on March 12, 1999, 11:26
OK I sent in mv check early Feb (and it hasn't even cleared) to get Barry's CD. A b'day present to myself.
It's been a while .... I'm more than anxious to hear him after all these years ... please don't make me wait any longer.
Glad to see ya back darlin'!
normaK

normaK - Mythopoeia has checked it out. Seems you got your copy. Hope you enjoy it. And believe me there is a hellava lot more where that came from. Can't wait to start putting more out. Thanks for listening.


Connie Carty from Lansdale, PA wrote on March 13. 1999,16:31
You're not alone Norma. I ordered my "As Is" CD on December 17th and have not received it yet. Heard from Barry's Webmaster in February that it would be coming soon.
Can anyone help us get our CDs. Mine was paid for with a VISA, so I'm paid in full and impatiently waiting.
Ordered Global on the 17th of December also and received it the following week. Great stuff.
Connie

Connie Carty - Connie, we helped you. Hope you are enjoying it.


Kathy from oh yeah...Indiana for now. wrote on March 15. 1999,18:35
Hey, Rudolph! The CD is great...maybe didn't make it here in time for my Christmas stocking, but arrived on my birthday! How's that for timing, huh? Thanks again for sending it.
Keep the music flowing!

Kathy - From what I understand I did write Santa to Make a fast delivery. But he faxed me back and told me Rudolph found the Mead stash (an old English wine that was meant for the royal family, but Rodolph found it first). Valentines day is when I met my wife - so it's a good thing. Thanks for listening


Connie from Lansdale, PA wrote on March 22. 1999,20:12
Barry, what a great wife you have. Got an e-mail from Debbie today and it looks like my CD is on it's way.
Looking forward to hearing your work.
Thanks Debbie for all your help!!!
Connie

Connie - We aim to please. Thank you.


barbara sanford from nampa, idaho wrote on March 23. 1999, 12:31
i hope barry cowsill will come to boise idaho or the whole cowsill group, but it looks like they went their seperate ways, thank you barbara

barbara sanford - Separate but never apart. You never know. My fee for a concert in Boise will be train fare back and forth to where I live, a certain amount of cash, and a 50 lb sack of potatoes. Looking forward to playing Boise


connie m. from where its at wrote on March 28. 1999, 19:21
congratulations on a GREAT cd. i am ready for a new one from you already!

connie m. - My God Connie ... due to circumstances beyond my control, like any construction project the next one will be done - when it's done. I'm glad you are enjoying the one you got.


Connie from Cowsilly Philly wrote on April 3. 1999, 16:01
Barry and Debbie,
Thanks so much for sending my CD. I got it today. What I've heard so far is awesome.
And Barry, thanks for the note. And of course I wish you luck!!!
Mucho Loveros,
Connie

Connie - I'm glad you understand American Spanish. Me Muchos Pleasuros.


Leslie from New York wrote on April 4. 1999,23:25 Dear Barry: I saw the VH-1 show last night and begged my husband not to change the channel!! I couldn't believe the Cowsills were on! You were my first HUGE CRUSH back then and I scoured over 16 Mag and Tigerbeat to find anything about you. I even begged my Grandmother to take me to Newport to see if I could find you! (No dice!!) Anyway, thanks for all those wonderful memories and my best to you and your family. Love Leslie

Leslie - Thank god I'm not a back street boy. Talk about tons of girls having huge crashes. I truly feel sorry for all the guys at the local high schools who's girlfriends got these huge crushes is on famous other people. That means the guys had to cut their hair to look like the famous guys so they could get a date. My sympathy goes out to the gentlemen. Buy the CD, I think you'll like it. Although its not the Back Street Boys. Thanks for checking in.


Connie from Ohio wrote on April 5. 1999,10:57
Excited to see "old friends" again. Like a 30 year reunion of sorts.

connie - May the circle be unbroken. Thanks for checkin in.


Michelle from Dallas wrote on April 6. 1999,19:46
DEAR ME.. I am excited to know you're out and about— playing places way closer to home than California.. My car could probably make it to Louisiana. GOSH.. just make sure it's on weekends so I'm not in school.. You rock Barry.

Michelle - Don't play hooky. I'm playing on Sunday, May 2nd. Early evening so you can get home in time for class. Check the performance schedule. Just make sure Dallas is close enough for you to get back in time for school. If you make it - see you there.


Carrie from Michigan wrote on April 9. 1999,20:43
I guess I must be reliving my youth, because I'm writing a letter to Barry Cowsill! I stumbled upon the Cowsills web site and this link - what a great find! In 1968 I saw the Cowsills perform three times in one day at the Michigan State Fair. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. I made my Dad drive me and two friends to the Fair and we spent the entire day waiting to see you perform . You didn't let me down.
Today, when I see the kids getting all excited over NSYNC and such, I can relate and it always gives me the smiles.
Thanks for the good times. Come to Michigan and perform some day.


Carrie - No your not re-living your youth. Life can be one day if you look at it in the big picture. So we can say I was at the Michigan State Fair yesterday afternoon. The only thing that's grown is my wisdom. So I guess we're all still 18. Don't sweat it - hope to see you soon sometime.


Catherine from New Jersey wrote on April 10, 1999, 07:51
Cool site, Barry! I'm getting ready to order AS IS pretty soon - as soon as I finish paying for my daughter's summer camp tuition. You know how it is....
Cowsill music was a very important part of my growing up years. Like most of your fans, I lived for the latest issue of 16 magazine so I could see more pictures and read more about you all. I imagined then that your family life was perfect - that fantasy was a great refuge for me (the child of a very distant and very cold family). I was surprised to learn in later years that your reality had been much like mine, and probably was much worse at times.
So here we all are 30 years later. Survivors! Congratulations to you (and your siblings) for making it out alive - and for flourishing despite all the negative stuff.
I'm looking forward to listening to AS IS pretty soon.
Regards,
Catherine

Catherine - My great fantasy for me on the road was Laugh-In and the Monkeys. So I guess we all had our fantasy worlds to duck in to. Life has always been a roller coaster. I hope your ride was as scary and as fulfilling as mine. If the roller coaster ride is fast enough that negative shit flies right off you with the wind. Thanks for touching base.


Lisa Levand from Wichita, Kansas signed the guestbook on April 11. 1999,17:30

Lisa Levand - Hey Lisa. Hope the tornados ain't hit your district yet. Remember if you don't have a basement hit the bathtub.


Barb from Colorado wrote on April 12. 1999,01:23
Seems I heard some where that Barry personally responds to these things? Did I hear right? Love always.

Barb - Here in Mythopoeia where I land now and again I am able to take the time, yes, to answer as many of these hits as I can. My favorite color ain't red anymore though. Some things do change - later. Thanks.


normaK from hell who knows wrote on April 12. 1999, 15:46
Just read your "Up and Coming" page,.... can't wait for you to 'give my mind a run' -- it's been a long time. I have a feeling you're a master at it. Hurry up and get your computer.... it's a safe place you know.
As soon as you post your dates, I'll start making plans to come see ya and your band mates.
I'm heading to LA to see Bob. Will head your way soon. take care darlin'
normaK / Dallas, Tx

normaK - Okay - I'm gonna run your brain, you asked for it. Were you ever in an El Paso jail for vagrancy, while you were really waiting for a box car to move out? And you ended up in the El Paso jail on the top floor on July 9th? 102 degrees by the way. And then you escape by accident by just walking into the elevator when you were supposed to be getting a check up. And you weren't wearing any sandals cause they stole em in your jail cell. So there you are a free fugitive walking barefoot on a 108 degree sidewalk for three hours. And jump into a van headed for Juarez, Mexico. Just to realize that your scarring the local citizens because your barefoot and wild eyed - especially when you walk up to the lady with the colored ice, as thirsty as a desert rat. And she looks back at you with the ice pick against her breast ready to stab you if you even take a taste of her ice. Then you realize you better get your butt back to El Paso where at least they speak English. And get thrown back in jail by the police for sucking off some water hose in the back of some strange family's house. Until your mom flew out and fished you out of jail. Poor Barb... Well that's enough for now. There's more where that came from thou, believe me.....


Suzanne from Mass, wrote on April 13. 1999,03:03
Hi Barry! I was wondering if Jason does your site. Every time I come here to see what's new it seems to take forever to load, is it my computer or the graphics or what do you think? It goes to the page I want but then it takes a long time until I can actually see it.
I was also wondering if you think you'd ever head east for any performances in the near or distant future or if you think you'd be in LA anytime this summer, maybe playing at Pickwick's with any of your siblings? I've been hired to come out and teach master classes at a dance camp in the valley (my old stomping grounds). I dont know dates but if they ask when I'm available my fingers would be crossed that there would be some performance while I am out there if luck is on my side.
Can you answer one question, too? How did you come up with the name Elvis Franklin and do you still use it or have you gone back to your given name only now?
Congratulations to the new CEO, too!!
Hope things are going well, that the CD is selling well and that you're happy. I have started choreography on 'O! Timeless.
Suzanne

Suzanne - Jason does not do my site. The site resides in Mythopoeia of it's own accord. I use Elvis Franklin when I feel like it. Ben and Presley were my heroes at one time or another. And no, I use my real name for purposes of business. But there's so many of me for instance: Clyde Marlin, Bazil Drake , and plenty more, believe me. That's just a few.


mark williams from Longview Texas wrote on April 16. 1999, 14:30
Hi I really am glad to be able to sign in, and thank you for this site. I just love to hear really good singing and yes I sing too but not professionally, just on kareoke allthough last xmas they had a kareoke for entertainment at our Christmas party and the people handling it said that I had the best voice there, honest not bragging but I have been told that a lot, I really am glad that Barry has a new album I am hoping all the best for you barry. here is to you your freind Mark Williams

mark williams - Karoke eh? My favorite Karoke song that I do is Strangers in the Night by Frank Sinatra. That's fun stuff man. I hope you buy the CD and down the road maybe you can sing one of my songs at a Karoke bar. Kanichiwa, Basil.


Rita Strain Sims from Dalton, GA wrote on April 16. 1999, 20:31
There were 3 Barrys in my life. Barry Gober, Barry Williams, and YES Barry Cowsill!! And none of you knew little Rita Strain from GA existed. (Well Gober did, but he ended up going with my best friend Donna!) I had many of your family's 45's, Indian Lake, The Rain, the Park..etc. But when my sister moved to Atlanta and worked at Columbia (?), well, anyway, she brought me 4 Cowsill albums and posters!!! I just heard your sibs (Susan still looks the same!!) on ET and plan to record VH1 on the 24th. Wish I could catch you in "Nawleans", love that town, know you'll be great!! My heart skips a beat whenever hear the Cowsills!! I know you are still a hunk!!

Rita Strain Sims - Little Rita Strain, Damn Gober and Donna! Actually your probably still friends with them. I bet it hurt when it happened though. Oh well, what the h***, ring a bell, uncle Mel. Buy the Dang CD it'll keep you company. Oh yeah, When I was 15, I was on a flight to Denver with my family and Barry Williams was sitting about 5 seats back in the isle. Well I looked at him and he looked at me and we both d*** well knew who each other was so Williams to be extra cool broke out a cig and started smoking. So I looked back and saw him smokin' with that 'thou art hipper' look on his face. So I didn't look at him any more and got off the plane in Denver. Thanks for listening and rember buy the dang CD.


GFahey from Maine wrote on April 16. 1999,20:36
The Cowsills! Man I had always wondered what became of them all! Got my Cowsills album for my 14th birthday in '69 and would just stare at that picture for sooo long! That old kitchen stove, all of you sittin' in the kitchen. I get all excited whenever I stumble upon' any station playing "The Rain, the Park...." that song just sends me back in time.....really. Brings back all those feelings of how life seemed so much more peaceful and all that talk about "Love"! "Wasn't it fun then? What happened? Drugs and other stuff, we've all been there. Now here we are in our 40's talking about the old days! Barry, I pray that all is well with you and the others too. Saw the little bit that ET did tonight and came here. It seems that I have this sense of sadness about the days that have come and gone now. Maybe it's the reality of all the responsibilities that we have now that kind of clouds over those days of fun. Now we have bills and house payments and, and...Well, we have memories and they ARE good ones! You and the rest of the Cowsills gave them to us and I want to thank you for them. I played that album so many times that it vaporized I think! God Bless and remember, there are a lot of people that had good memories of the summer of'69 thanks to the Cowsills! I do anyway! Peace. (You can still say that right? :) )

GFahey - Same thing as you. For me at least, I don't know about the rest of the family: a very small trust funds ($1800 to be exact) "well," says I, "looks like a three day party, then I guess I'll have to get a job". Fortunately I had a well-to-do girlfriend to take care of me at the time. Then I finally got a job at 18 years old dumping refrigerators off of balconies in Providence, RI. But enough of that, memories are fine, but the future is finer. Get the CD and hear what I'm saying. Glad to be a part of your past — Barry


Debbi Booth from Calif. Now but raised in Texas wrote on April 16. 1999,23:17
I have wondered for years what happened to you and your family. I saw all of you in concert in Dallas, Texas, (at a football field) and when you got off the plane at Love Field earlier that day in 1968 or '69, (I have gotten too old to remember that exact year!) It's really something that you live in Sonora, CA as I live outside Merced. So close, yet so far. I've sent for your CD. I can't wait to hear your music. Barry, Good Luck! Debbi Booth

Debbi Booth - Take the Ginko - It will bring back your memory. First, your not as old think you are — believe me. So quit living a lie. Your young at heart. A memories is as close as yesterday so don't sweat it. Just listen to the CD and you'll know what I mean. We're all teenagers at heart. Thanks for listening.


Erie Clam from "Genesis & Beeyond" wrote on April 17. 1999,18:24
I gots the "Roll" - always had the "Roll" - always will have the "Roll" - ain't no "Rock" without the "Roll" - so, uh, where's my newspaper?

Eric Clam - Uh, I believe that's Ben Franklin's department. However, good to hear you got's the Roll. The Rock ain't far behind. Specially if you buy the frickin CD. Refreshing to hear someone sounding like they've refused give in to the "old folk" syndrome. Rock on Dude.


Dick Tilton from NH wrote on April 17. 1999,23:43
Barry-Peter Giftos sent me your URL. I played keys with you a few times when you were hanging out at Genesis. Sounds like you're having fun! Congrats!
Dick Tilton

Dick Tilton - Hey. I'm still coo coo for Coco Puffs ...and lots of MILK ...!!!!


Steve Canty from Kittery,Me. / Kissimmee,Fla. wrote on April 1 8. 1999, 11:14
Hey Barry! Glad to see you're still rockin'. Come to Disney and visit. I'm working at epcot as a diver at the living seas.H ope to hear from you soon! Love ya, Steve C.

Steve Canty - We want free tickets for me, my wife, and my kids. Get our butts down there. Oh, I talked to Giftos he's livin' over south of Tampa. You might give him a hoot. Love. Hope we play together one of these days again


ObiD. X. from Petie's Playroom wrote on April 18. 1999,13:26
Uh... say, Barry. I got a like e-mail from Pete about your CD and like... there's this tune... uh Legends of Love ... tap, tap, tap... and, uh... like how come I didn't get no production or royalty credit or nothin' like them other dudes???
Like, my mechanicals is rustin'... Pete keeps lubin' me up on that there WD-40, but I don't think that stuffs doin' my hi hat too good...
Love, Obi

OD. X. - Babe... your a bad-ass drummer. It's jus' to bad you have a cheap-ass Greek b***** for an owner. He's my uncle Pete so I get to call him that. Maybe press your buttons sometime in the future. Lets do lunch babe.


marlene from Calgary, Alberta wrote on April 18.1999,18:11
hey Barry! Great to see this page! You should come up to Calgary and perform with Bill sometime. That would be totally awesome!!
Take care,
Marlene

marlene - Hope you bought the CD. If not buy it. My propane bill from living on the mountains is horrendous. Give Billy a kiss for me. Tell 'em Six-Gun Dan says hello.


little pat patch from Virginia wrote on April 18. 1999,22:35
hi barry this is little pat patch !! i dont know if you remember me but we are cousins we used to come to your house and slid down the hill!!! loved doing that!!! my wife saw a tv commerical on your brothers come back so i just had to write to you all and get back in touch !!! i hope you will remember me !!! please write back and let me know how you all are doing !! ok?? thanks barry will be looking for your reply bye and take care !!! little pat patch !!! i go by joe patch now!!!

little pat patch - How's your dad and your sisters? Man, I remember you guys at the anchorage in Newport. Anyhow, say hi to your dad. He was a great friend of Buds. And any frienoi of Bud's is a friend of mine. And I hope your life's keeping you in a good state of mind. Pop me your phone number and I'll give you a call. Later.


picintron from San Juan, Puerto Rico wrote on April 18. 1999, 01:16
Hey Barry,
A long time ago it seems like our lives were so much easier. One of the reasons for that were "family groups"such as the Jacksons, the Pips, the Osmonds, the Cowsills, Each unique group had its own sense of style and a message for all of us, young or old. At the time your song, The Rain, The Park, etc. had come along, I had an AM radio, the round ball radio in blue with the 2 silver dials and religiously I would put it under my pillow at night and would pray that my mom would'nt hear it. Especially Sunday nights when only 1 station would play music til 1 a.m. (WOW!!) Nonetheless, it was always those songs that tugged at a 13 yr olds heart. Songs that would make her dream about someday being the girl whose foot would fit in the glass slipper. Your song was way, way up on the list as well as MacArthur Park, I'll be there, One bad apple, etc. Well one day I even caught my dad listening and shaking his head and snapping his fingers to your song... I pretended not to notice him. But I knew...! knew he loved that song.... Well that 13 yr old girl is now 40 and has a 5 yr old son. Yes, I once fit into the glass slipper but it broke, right along with my heart and worst of all, daddy's gone. But not your song... I still listen to it, especially when I sit up at night and listen to the stations on Sunday that play into the wee hours in the morning. I teach drama and english and you know what??? I did a class on oldies but goodies...can you believe it??? I'm sort of an oldie...but to this day, I hear that song and so many wonderful memories flood my heart. Especially when I remember the day I heard my dad singing... I saw her sitting in the rain...raindrops falling on her....etc... his favorite part was singing background for you guys..."Flowers in her hair... he would yell "Flowers everywheeeeer!!!!! God... I miss those days and I miss my dad... and when I didn't have your song to play as I got older, I would sit up at night and watch infomercials for the oldies just to see if they had your song....and you know what?? I found it, ordered it, and have it right here... along with my memories....! wish you the best of luck and I hope I didn't bore you too much..... god Bless and come to Puerto Rico sometime....there's a lot of us smoldie oldies here in the Caribbean....love always, Phyllis xoxox

picintron - Hey. Memories that you had I'm very happy for. Sounds like you lived in a pretty staunch household as a child. But I love the design of your radio. Lucky you. But hey, it's 1999, and I'm ready to deliver. You want to hear some good Rock n Roll then get the gol dern CD. And put it on the Puerto Rican Radio station, so everybody down there can hear it. My wife and me want to live in Jamaeia anyways. So hell, we could life down there and boat up to do concerts in Puerto Rico for the rest of ow lives. Again a very charming story, thank you.


Susan S. Porter from Richmond, VA wrote on April 19. 1999,19:41
Dear Barry, Have thought of you often over the years. You gave me my first kiss in Atlantic City, NJ wa-a-a-y back in July of 1969. You'll always have a special place in my heart. I look forward to hearing "AS IS" very soon. Hope all is well with you and your family. Take care.
Susan P.

Susan S. Porter - Glad to have been your first foreplay. Kissing is more romantic than the rest of it anyways. So here's to the future and I do hope you enjoy the CD. Thanks for tapping


Jan from kinda the same space as Barry :) wrote on April 20. 1999,12:12
Baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrreeeeeeeeeeee:))) am loving this whole "he's baaaaaaaack" bizness... plus? the CD's fine, fine, supahfine... Smoochas in Muchas, Kiddo... XOXOXOX

Jan - Oh Burhoe, I have just 3 things to say to you... BLAH!! BLAH!! BLAH!! love Lestat.


normaK from Dallas (ya'll) Texas wrote on April 20. 1999,15:35
TO BARRY: ok, so I misunderstood....not the first, nor last time. The "package" was definitely more to my likin' — made me feel special, THANK YOU very much!
I listened to your CD right away.....all I can say to those folks who haven't ordered it yet is: ORDER NOW!!! if you want to listen to raw, sensual, wild music, definitely uninhibited.
If you're expecting "The Rain, Park..." forget it. This boy's grown up! and his music is different, yet refreshing, fun to listen to and haunting — it challenges your senses for sure.
The voice this guys possesses (or does it possess him?) is awesome, leaves you wanting more. Great sound and a good beat.......just try dancing to it.
order now!

normaK - Glad we don't misunderstand anymore. It's a pleasure to make you feel special. And thank YOU very much. Round the Bend.


DODIE JOHNSON from CHARLESTOWN, MASSACHUSETTS wrote on April 21. 1999,07:45
WAS BACKSTAGE WITH YOU IN THE LATE SIXTIES AT THE HATCH MEMORIAL SHELL IN BOSTON MY DAD WAS FRIENDS WITH JOHNNIE OTOOLE

D0DIE JOHNSON - Johnnie Otoole gave me a kick-ass cowboy hat when we were on the road together. I'll never forget him and I'll never forget the gig at the hatch shell. One of our better gigs. And I'm sure I had a pleasure meeting you. Though brain cells do travel though the years. Thanks for touchin base. Get the CD. Thanks again.


Patricia Stowe from Scottsdale,AZ wrote on April 21. 1999,19:28
Hello Barry! Its nice to see you and your brothers and Susan back again! As an avid fan since the late 60s I've often wondered what had happened to you all! Hope to see you in phx or scottsdale area sometime! Pat

Patricia Stowe - I'm not back with Susan, Bob, John and Paul but we are some of us group together and some of us on our own projects. However, as family is concerned providence has it that we will be together for life. We all still love each other and can still have some pretty d*** good arguments. Hey what are families for. Looks like you didn't get the CD Get it. Thanks, B. C.


Connie from Cowsilly Philly from Lansdale, PA but originally from Philly wrote on April 22. 1999, 19:43
Barry, thank you for helping me through my root canal today. Dont understand? Well...I made a cassette of AS IS and played it on my walkman during the entire procedure and almost forgot where I was and why I was there.
You are the best!!
Once again your music does great things!!!
Love ya always, Connie

Connie from Cowsilly Philly - I comment about this on the Cowsill site


Guido from Nashville TN wrote on April 23. 1999, 11:10
Barry - I have a very lucrative proposition for you. Please email for details, as I'd rather not discuss here ... Thanks


Kathryn (Kathi) Kimbrough from Kansas wrote on April 24. 1999,03:11
Well, you and your family gave many of my friends and I palpitations during some tough (we thought then) teenage years! I had a huge crush on Paul but received my first ever 'real' kiss from you October 3, 1970 in Manhattan, Kansas. And pestered my mom until she took me and several of my girlfriends to Liberty, MO the next weekend for my birthday on October 10,1970. I met some really great pen friends and had some fantastic times. Thanks for the fun, even though you weren't directly 'involved* in most of it!
Thanks so very much!

Kathryn (Kathi) Kimbrough - Glad to give you your first real kiss. I hope I didn't piss Paul off. Glad you enjoyed the memories. Now lets move ahead and get my CD please - if you don't have it already. Thanks again, B.C.


Mary Ann (Creasraan) Ogea from Westland (Detroit), Michigan wrote on April 24. 1999,16:09
When I was a young teenager (too many years ago to think about!!), you were my favorite Cowsill! I'm sorry to hear you've had such a rough life, but glad to know you're back on track and making music again. I saw "Where Are They Now" on VH-1 today and was surprised that you weren't even mentioned!! I'm glad someone on the Cowsills' web site knew your Internet address. Take care and good luck with your new cd!

Mary Ann (Creasraan) Ogea - My brothers and sister have a different agenda than I do. So, not to worry if I wasn't on the VH1 Show, I'll be showin up in my own time and destiny. You can be sure. Don't be afraid to think of when you were a teenager - it wasn't many years ago.


Bill Carlton from LA wrote on April 24. 1999,21:10
Sept. 14, we want you to come and play our club Highland Grounds in Hollywood. If you are in town lets rock. Let me know, your pal, Bill

Bill Carlton - Send the information, price, form of transportation, and how much the suite at the Beverly Hills Hotel will cost (just kidding) to the P.O. BOX listed on the order page. I would love to play for your club. Okay later.


Jo Ann from NH wrote on April 25. 1999,21:44
Hi there, Barry!! So great hearing from you all over today, Sunday! Thanks for answering us all! I am going to order As Is right away, dont forget your promise for a personal note! Thanks so much, Barry!!