John Cowsill and The Beach Boys
Miscellaneous Comments

Seems Cowsill has left too. Damn, that's a blow and no mistake.
ADG. - Endless Harmony

John Cowsill too brought power and fun to their performances, and was a great friend of the fans. The band will not be the same without him.
John M. - Endless Harmony

Whatever the backstage goings-on that have led to this, this is going to be the worst blow for the touring band since Carl's death, and I don't say that lightly. Mike's band lost a *lot* today.
Andrew W. - Endless Harmony

Cowsill was an *exceptional* drummer.
Mega-Ripper - Endless Harmony

John is a simply outstanding drummer and performer.
Sam_BFC - Endless Harmony

Personally, in terms of sound, I'm more worried about them finding a drummer with the 'oomph' and 'energy' like Cowsill
Rick B - Endless Harmony

As for John Cowsill . . . I'll miss that steady Dennis Wilson-like downbeat that he provided . . . he looked a bit more like Animal from the Muppets with his hair (lol) but he gave Mike's touring ensemble the bedrock it needed.
esqeditor - Endless Harmony

Drummer Cowsill had vocal spotlights on "Darlin'" and second set opener "California Dreamin' ", the Mamas and Papas hit, and proved he could be a headliner himself.
Jay M. - The Patriot Leader

The best drummer the Beach Boys has had . . . Plays each song like it's the most important thing on the planet. . . . His sense of rhythm and feel, nobody has that.
John Stamos - Cowsills Podcast

In my opinion, John had carried Mike Love for years; he's an amazing drummer very much in the mold of a young Dennis Wilson
Jim C. - youtube

best drummer of all time great artist great guy
Darek F. - youtube

I had the extreme pleasure of watching John perform with The Beach Boys tonight at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and he rocked the house. As reported by others from other concerts on this tour, he sang lead on California Dreaming. Phenomenal! I was in the balcony and I passed the soundboard on the way out and overheard a conversation as one was asking about that gifted drummer (you know, the guy we all admire) and the sound technician was explaining to him that the drummer in question was John Cowsills, from The Cowsills.

Nancy P.

They were backed by an incredibly tight band, under the direction of the inestimable Scott Totten and featuring, among others, Jeff Foskett, formerly of the Beach Boys - touring band and latterly of Brian Wilson's band, and a long-time Love-associate, the energetic John Cowsill, on drums, whose singing and playing on Wild Honey were beyond belief.

Frank B.

Drummer extraordinaire John Cowsill brought the house down with every lead with Cottonfields (a hit here) being especially well received. Sail on Sailor impressed even those who were unfamiliar with the song.

Kiwi Surfer on BBB

Even back then John was the most kick ass drummer I have ever seen. At 11, what he is now is absolutely ... and I kid you not ... I've seen Ginger Baker ... I've seen all my heroes play drums and I have to say ... I stand here with God as my witness, he's my favorite drummer. He's extraordinary and everybody I"ve spoken to - musicians alike - I booked Bleecker Street back in the day & John played around there and every musician I've spoken to - John Fenon (Feron??) included said, "John is the best f***ing drummer on the planet."

Vicki A. on Youtube

Met John Cowsill for the first time last friday, Very nice guy, hilarious and an unbelievable musician,,

John E. on Facebook

John is the most talented drummer we've had. And he is a great singer. Part of the backbone of the group. He really cares about the music. You can't fake that.

Mike Love in Newport Daily News

Wild Honey - very slightly slowed, (I think) giving the song a swagger, while maintaining its powerhouse effect. Cowsill on lead, of course! The crowd loved it!

filledeplage on BBB

(Only specific song mentioned in this review) Wild Honey...WOW! Wonderful show!

Brian on BBB

I have to say that I think John Cowsill is the best drummer I've ever heard. He keeps it going...there's no dragging...energy is always there

Mary S on Facebook

Bruce Johnston referred to as the "heartbeat" of the band. Yup. Heartbeat. Rockbeat, Soulbeat.



filledeplage on BBB

John adds so much to this already legendary group!!! With his superb drumming and vocals they should count themselves lucky to have him!!

Joe C on Facebook

I only know of John Cowsill through his Beach Boys association, but he sure stole the show at York, England, last month. . . . This second time I saw them however, he sang leads on 'Help Me Ronda', 'Cotton Fields', 'Wild Honey' (which he nailed), 'Darlin' and 'California Dreamin', and since then I've been hooked on JC, both as a drummer and vocalist.

Jack S on Facebook

John stole the show at York Racecourse last Friday! What a voice that fella has and I've never even realised til then. 'Help Me, Rhonda' and 'Wild Honey' were set highlights and he nailed them both. Cheers John!



Jack Spencer on Facebook

They sounded great - our All American band with the best drummer in the land!!

Jean Ann on Facebook

John C. is a hard pounding drummer in the D.W. style more than any other who has played with the band....And he can sing his a$$ off!

Mitch T. on BBB

John Cowsill is a ROCK AND ROLL drummer. He hits HARD, and drives the live show so it sounds like a ROCK AND ROLL band, not strictly an oldies act. Enough said.

Bill E. on BBB

Cowsill has been drumming since he was about 12 or so, and that he was one of two members of Mike's band to be chosen for the C50 tour is instructive. Brian's said he's the best drummer The Beach Boys have had, and if Brian says so, then it must be true.

ADG on BBB

John is a showman, has personality, a bloody good singer and a great drummer.

Alyn on BBB

Cowsill stole the show.

John P. on Facebook

as talented as john cowsill is this isnt the real beach boys

Kevin H. on youtube

One of the highlights for me, was the drummer, John Cowsill and his renditions of Darlin and Wild Honey as lead soloist and drummer.

Sharon J. on Daily News

He is an exceptional drummer, an exceptional drummer, and a great singer as well. He adds a lot to our show

Mike Love

John Cowsill belted out amazing vocals on "Darlin'" and "Help Me Rhonda"

Todd C. on mlive

The amazing John Cowsill handles some of the drumming chores - - he's the closet thing I've heard to Dennis Wilson, on record and on stage, since 1980.

Robin C. on blog

John Cowsill is absolutely brilliant

Rick P. on Facebook

... Wild Honey ROCKED!!! Probably my favorite song the whole night..

Jarrett on Facebook

Show highlight: Wild Honey!

Henrik on BBB

Saw John with the Beach Boys last night in Norfolk, NE. Very very talented--drumming AND singing!

David S. on BBB

(Speaking of "Wild Honey") Cowsill just shredding his vocal cords wailing and nailing it. ... I can only guess it is placed where it is in the set as it is such a vocal shredder that putting it earlier would make it harder for John to sing parts afterwards. Regardless it was a moment and a performance I won't soon forget. Thanks Scott for getting it in there and John for knocking it out of the park.

John Cowsill is just a monster on the drums and elevates everything the band does.

Rich on BBB

Saw John with the Beach Boys last night in Norfolk, NE. Very very talented--drumming AND singing!

Melinda on Facebook

. . . backing musicians were outstanding, and drummer John Cowsill (of the 1960's pop group The Cowsills) must be commended for his attention to precision and detail, playing with unbelievable drive and enthusiasm.

Eddie C. in Key Notes

OMG!!!! John Cowsill you brought the house DOWN!!!! fav drummer ever!!!!!

Tish on Facebook

Rock on, John. You ARE Animal! I love it.

Kasey on Facebook

John is "poetry in motion". Not only is he a very tasty drummer but every movement appears choreographed. Flawless.

Cheri

Absolutely awesome drummer - boundless energy, great personality, talented performer - perfection!

Jean Ann

John Cowsill started the concert with the drumbeat for "Do it again"and man that guy can drum!! Woow I'm an old drummer myself and I was so impressed by John who nailed all the songs with the same energy as Dennis Wilson once did IMHO. Good job John's really good job!

Robert F on BBB

John Cowsill was worth the effort it took to get to my seat. He rocked and drove the band into the stratosphere. Like a "secret weapon."

Bill H.

Their backing band's drummer was John Cowsill, from the original, real life Partridge Family, and he was very talented.

Blogs n Roses

In response to a statement about our John vs John Stamos, the Beach Boys Reunion board lit up. Here are a sample of the responses:

No way!! John Cowsill is awesome!!!!! - Linda R.
Sorry....that's not very likely. Cowsii had two #1 singles under his belt, as a drummer, before he was 16. His experience alone is what makes him one of the greats. - Mike P.
NEVER!!! John Cowsill is the better drummer. The best the Beach Boys have had in years he plays the classic songs live on stage just like it was played on the record. - Jeremy H.
Stamos better not play at the Seattle show. - Matt S.
John Cowsill is the best they've had in a long time!. Stamos can't come close. - John D.
Cowsill was amazing at Bethlehem. I had no idea he was that good. There is some serious power and drive when he plays. - Michael E.
Oh please.....no comparison. - Colleen L.
Stamos beats the crap out of the drums! Cowsill is more skilled. Hey I'm a drummer myself who better to judge these things than me! The difference between Stamos amd Cowsill is kinda like the difference between Dennis John Cowsill is the best drummer to play with The Beach Boys since Hal Blaine !! Period !! - Dave K.
John Cowsill has been playing drums for 47 years! He doesn't show boat! - Claudia G.
My opinion? JOHN COWSILL ROCKS!!!!! - Nanci N.
But John Cowsill is a fantastic drummer. He has been for as long as I can remember, literally. - Kathy M.
Although I understand JS's draw, he doesn't begin to compare musically to John Cowsill IMHO. - Becky P.
Well, I was looking forward to seeing J Stamos in Houston & he wasn't there. Didn't miss him at all, love John Cowsill forever. - Susan T.
Where Cowsill really shines is as singing drummer. His version of "Darlin'" with Mike and Bruce is worthy of being released! - Brian D.
Saw the BB last night at Jones Beach , NY. John Cowsill was awesome.... Stamos was way off on some songs, just goes to prove who is the best... JC - Jacquelyn J.

Great drummer in my book. I wonder how many skins he'll go through during this tour. ... Bash on Mr. Cowsill! - D-squared

Great percussionist (Nelson Bragg)....he adds to the great John Cowsill - Chris S.

The drummer, John Cowsill, was perfect. He played with power and finesse. He would have made Dennis proud.

Rick A on imwan

They have John Cowsill on drums, what a powerhouse mutha; he's awesome.

Claire M. on iorr

The highlight of the show this time was John Cowsill performing on "Darlin'"....he is absolutely WONDERFUL!!! His voice is just the best and his drumming is excellent. He brings an electrifying energy to the group.

normaKK on Ticketmaster

Help Me, Rhonda Rockin' John Cowsill blew down the doors with this live fave!

filledeplage

One of my favourites is John C- his performance was one of the highlights of that show. I recently saw John's You Tube promo for Vater Percussion. I thought it was great!

mmjd on BBB

The vocal highlight's for me were the numbers sung by John Cowsill (not stuck behind a perspex screen for once). "Darlin'", "Cottonfields" etc

David Slater on BBB

Help Me, Rhonda (The best aspect of John Stamos on the drums, for me, is that Cowsill "gets out with the people" to show his inborn "Cowsillian" talent to spike the already high enthusiasm of the audience.)

filledeplage

saw the Beachboys london, ontario june 3/11..and john is a monster on drums for full 100 minutes.. while singling up a storm as well

jctoronto via email

There was a group called The Cowsills back in the late sixties, early seventies. They did fairly well, they're a family group like The Beach Boys and John Cowsill is now our drummer. He's a strong singer, he plays great drums!

Mike Love

wow just flat awesome Cowsill is just wickedly awesome behind the kit

Ian M.

wow just flat awesome Cowsill is just wickedly awesome behind the kit

Ian M.

John Cowsill - you are one talented drummer- you rock man- even after a tambourine is tossed at the cage...

Eric S. on BBB

Help Me, Rhonda (Yeah!) Rockin'John Cowsill
Fun, Fun, Fun - closed out the show but not without a spectacular drum solo from Mr. Cowsill.

filledeplage on BBB

letter perfect percussion from Mr. Cowsill . . . Help Me, Rhonda (Yeah!) John Cowsill

filledeplage on BBB

Darlin (John Cowsill sang this one, and NAILED it) . . . Help Me Rhonda (John Cowsill on vocals again...phenomenal!)

MaccaFan on forumsunlimited

John Cowsill, who had been playing keyboards and singing some of Carl's leads moved back to drums, a job he's held since the 60s (with the Cowsills, Jan & Dean, etc.). John is a phenomenal drummer; the best they've had since Rikki Fataar. He plays with furious energy, plays like Dennis did in the 1960s and is responsible for putting the group logo back on the bass drum (ala The Beatles). He still sings his share and does triple duty on WOULDN'T IT BE NICE, singing, playing drums and tympany. He's there best drummer in years; it's worth the price just to see him work. And I've seen audiences awestruck. I was sitting in the show next to Billy Hinsche's mom (Billy was going to guest on some songs that night) and SHE was amazed with Cowsill. And she'd been Dennis Wilson's "other" Mom.

Tim Cain

You left out one thing that the Great Rockin' Multi-taskin' John Cowsill does...He "dances" in that seat!

filledeplage

Help Me Rhonda - of course. It never ceases to amaze me how he can drum and sing so well at the same time.

David Slater

The regular drummer, John Cowsill, is a consummate pro and is great vocalist as well, singing Carl's and Al's parts. ... I thought he was outstanding on "Darlin"

catmando on Invision

(Note: The following comments are in regards to Mike's voice being a little off due to illness.)
A great singer, but last night was one of his tougher performances, he just didn't have it. Why couldn't John Cowsill or one of the other band members done the lead vocals if Mike was under the weather?

Californian on BBB

I have no idea who the other band members were . . . the drummer by the way was amazing.

Wendy - Invision

The best singer by far in the current lineup is drummer John Cowsill. The moment he began belting out Darlin' was the first time in the show when things came alive and the audience heard the music for real instead of subconsciously replacing it in their head with a copy of the original radio edit. Cowsill also sang Help Me Rhonda, Cotton Fields and Heroes and Villains, the latter especially a fantastic song, sadly hampered considerably by a muffled and muted middle section.

Danu P. from Australian Stage

Yep you are right, Here today was a hidden gem. I like how they pull out Cottonfields for the Australian/NZ audience - John does it with such passion. Did you notice that he did not beat the bejusus out of the drum kit because of the orchestra backing... I suppose when you have timpani's and bass drums behind you you can slack off!!!!

Trader on BBB

To which John answered:

I tried to get a Hammock back there but I couldn't reach the bass drum pedal while downing a beer. Actually I didn't want to drown out the other players on stage. At rehearsal I played normal/abnormal and it was just crushing everyone. In that hall it would have been the John Cowsill show. Sorry if the drumming was a disappoint But glad you liked the show anyway...It was a blast and the orchestra was balls to the wall.

To which I say:
This is one thing a admire about John's playing. I've always said John plays drums musically as well as rhythmically. I've been in the Pub where John has done the same, he blends and adds to a song. He doesn't take it over.

There would be nothing wrong with having it be the John Cowsill Show. I'd pay extra to see that. In the U.S. we can't even get the John Cowsill Show on "Help Me Rhonda" anymore, not the way it used to be, not for any amount of money. And John, you know I tried!

Rowie on BBB

and last but not least (and a mea culpa for omitting him from the setlist from Friday,) the multi-tasking dancin' drummer - percussionist John Cowsill who always whips the crowd into a frenzy with "Help Me, Rhonda" - John is "faithful" to the original music with his own drumming style and wonderful voice on many of the leads that Carl sang. I think he has much of that "soulful" passion that Carl sang with...

filledeplage on BBB

Just saw the Beach Boys at the Los Angeles County Fair this evening. John ws fantastic on drums and vocals!

Jayne F. on facebook

John Cowsill was the hit of the show. He was really, really, good -- Brian should hire him.

Leslie on google groups

John Cowsill is simply one of the best live drummers you will ever see and a lovely guy as well.

Bri D. on google groups

John Cowsill plays with a combination of Dennis' firepower and Hal Blaine's chops. He puts the rock and roll back into the BB's sound.

RobMac on smileysmile

Nice. I've seen them twice in recent years. They were better the second time but Cowsill was the highlight both times. He's really a great drummer

AndyCummingsMusic on youtube

And what a difference having John Cowsill behind the kit is awesome his style is the perfect mixture of power and pain staking accuracy to the original recordings.

Ian from BBB

Another drummer (another named "John") took over for John Cowsill for him to "get out" on stage to "rock the house" for Help Me, Rhonda! This homeboy "ruled the stage" for that number.

I gotta tell you that among a group of us who saw no fewer than five shows this past week, the "big" chatter and question was whether "he" (John Cowsill) would get "out" to do (what I call) the "Rhonda Swagger" last night, if the "timing" of the show would permit.

But, we got what we wanted last night! "Rhonda," in John Cowsill "swagger" style!

filledeplage from BBB

Big treat for show #2 - the "Rhonda Swagger" (as I call it) with rockin' John Cowsill coming out from behind his percussion "section" with a powerful stage presence and reminiscent of Dennis Wilson coming out to do a "lead" - two thumbs up for Rhonda and Sail on Sailor...

filledeplage from BBB

After going to a Beach Boys concert last night in Peachtree City, GA.....I was pleasantly surprised by the high energy drummer that kept the beat going all night....seemingly tirelessly. And, what a clear, strong voice! Wow.....Now I really like the Beach Boys.

pc

I recently saw the BB in Peachtree City Georgia and was lucky enough to meet and talk to John...What a nice man!!!!! .

Kevin C. on facebook

(at sound check) they also played the rarely-performed "Sail On Sailor" in its entirety, with a fine John Cowsill lead vocal

John Cowsill brings a solid power-pop sensibility to the drums, and throws his whole being into not only playing the kit and singing, but also adding all the little extras (tambourine, temple blocks, tympani) that make the percussion arrangements on Beach Boys records so memorable. In his new role, he is like Dennis Wilson, Hal Blaine, and Frankie Capp rolled into one. The visual energy and excitement he projects while playing the drums is very much like that of Dennis in the mid-'60s, with his whole body moving like a locomotive through the entire performance.

Craig S. - BBB

Cowsill's strong performance drove the evening's most ambitious number, "Heroes and Villains."

David D. - St. Louis

Let there be no mistake in anyone's mind: this current incarnation of the band is every bit as devoted to delivering an authentic representation of the music that is true . . . John Cowsill, in particular, are passionately committed to getting things RIGHT in the live presentation of the BBs' music. To that end, John sits in a drummer's booth surrounded not only by the standard drum kit, but also tympani, tambourines, and temple blocks, all of which he plays with skill & ease while also singing in a strong, passionate voice.

c-man on smileysmile

John Cowsill nailed California Dreamin. After the song Mike said, "John Cowsill is multi tasking on the drums." ... John Cowsill did an outstanding job drumming. He was drumming so hard I think it was during Surfin USA he broke one of his drum sticks which we were lucky enough to procure after the concert! We had fun, fun, fun!!!

Moon - BBB

Watching John Cowsill tonight was amazing. What sets him apart is that he almost dances as he drums... and plays with every fiber in him, precisely but passionately!

filledeplage - BBB

John Cowsill was really amazing on drums - you really could see him in action on the circular stage.

brian - BBB

John....you played your ass off...looked really cool up there.......and singing those great vocals without missng a beat....

Donald - Smiley Smile

John Cowsill absolutely whipped that crowd in Hyannis into a frenzy with Rhonda!

filledeplage on BBB

Just got back from the show...Lots of fun...Good performances all around. That Cowsill fellow on drums was tearing it up.

cwalter on smileysmile

... extravagantly gifted drummer John Cowsill

John A. - Evening Standard

Cowsill is the reason I look forward to seeing them, and now that he's drumming full time I know it will be good.

David C on shutdown

I Can Hear Music [REALLY nice lead from John Cowsill!]
Help Me Rhonda [thank GOD for John Cowsill! This guy adds so much! It's just too bad he's stuck behind the drums, even tho it's where he belongs.]

Susan on BBB

Most bands reckon their drummer is the "hardest working" in the business. John Cowsill was definitely a serious contender for the title from his performance on Cotton Fields alone. Singing with a powerful tenor voice while pounding away on his kit, he added extra oomph to every song he tackled.

Martin L on scotsman.com

Cowsill is the best drummer I've ever seen, bar none. I already knew he was decent, and he's been a real asset to the band at every gig I've seen, but switching him to drums has given the band a power and confidence they've not had since the early 70s. ... the redistribution of vocal parts has meant that Cowsill got more leads (a very good thing) ... Cowsill's drumming on some of the surf songs is more complex than the parts on the record ... Don't Back Down - Cowsill's playing on this was *astounding*, sounding almost like Alban 'Snoopy' Pfisterer's playing on 7 & 7 Is by Love. Cowsill plays like a man with at least seven limbs, putting in little tom rolls all over the place and still keeping the beat rock-solid. ... He's far and away the best singer in the band, strong and soulful, and the fact that he manages to sing so well while playing the drums as hard as he does amazes me ... (Sail On Sailor) But John Cowsill's rendition of this was literally the best I've ever heard, and I've heard a lot of versions of this song. ... Here Today was astonishing, just listening to the rhythm section. Randell Kirsch playing those incredibly fast bass notes along with John Cowsill's broken drum pattern was quite incredible. ... Cottonfields, on the other hand, was just an exhilirating *rush*. This one was a huge hit here in the UK, and the band did a superb job on it, with Cowsill's lead vocals being a big part of that.

Andrew on blog

John Cowsill in particular stood out. The decision to move him to the drums must be one of the best that the band has made as he brought so much energy to the songs and sang amazingly as well.

Nick on BBB

Mr Cowsill, I think you are just amazing.

Val on BBB

What a great performance on drums and vocals by John Cowsill, the best of which a rip-roaring Sail on Sailor

Derek on BBB

John Cowsill is a brilliant lead vocalist on some of the songs, and just a fabulous drummer as well. He drives them when he needs to and adds some incredibly subtle parts as well.

Richard H. on blog

But the star of the show was drummer John Cowsill, who shocked the audience when he took lead vocals midway through the show.

Without a doubt, Cowsill had the best voice on the stage, and was able to bash the drums while holding the song together with amazing flare and charisma.

Zoe Burn Newcastle Evening Chronicle

extravagantly gifted drummer John Cowsill

John Aizlewood - Evening Standard

John Cowsill (sadly "trapped" behind that clear barrier!) on drums and stunning vocals

Val on message board

John Cowsill, the drummer, who had a particularly pleasing timbre

David Sinclair - The Times

(Note: Although not specifically about John himself, I thought this was a great post I wanted to save.)

There's another more recent-vintage Cowsills tune called "Some Good Years," which I always thought should have been recorded by The Beach Boys.... it's an incredibly positive number, one of my favorite songs by anybody, anywhere, anytime. It's on their "Global" CD, and it's available on iTunes. Check it out!!

Alan Boyd (Alan is an award-winning documentary filmmaker and historical footage archivist and all around authority on all things Beach Boys)

Who is John Cowsill? He brought the crowd down (in Delaware) when he moved to the front of the stage and sang "Help Me Rhonda". He is sooo full of energy and appears to really love what he does.. He made the show for me!

gebogia on message board

you rock dude- great voice and great attitude

calvertdeforest on message board

Hello Mr Cowsill. I still think you have the perfect hair for a drummer. Love Jardine (age 9).

J. from BBB

John Cowsill is light years ahead of Mike Kowalksi when it comes to playing the kit. . . . . Cowsill is far and ahead the better drummer.

I think John Cowsill, reminded me a h*** of a lot like Dennis Wilson, i know that may not be a popular statement in these parts of the woods, but just the sheer energy that he played with was amazing. I meant to say he kicked butt when he played. John can just rock it out and rock it well.

Ian M. on BBB

I think John is probably the best performer in the current Beach Boys lineup. ... I was hoping to hear John Cowsill sing "Indian Lake" with the Beach Boys but it didn't happen. Too bad, but he did real well with the Beach Boys' (& Mamas & Papas') numbers. It always amazes me when someones drums (well) and sings at the same time.

dumangl on stevehoffman

Certainly the most energetic of all was John Cowsill, who must be well into his fifties. Taking the trouble to reproduce percussive subtleties in a way Dennis rarely did live, at times he looked a lot like Dennis, flailing as he did in his youth, long hair flopping on his face.

garbonza

John Cowsill was tremendously skilful on the drums too, faithful to the original recordings -- and showing so much energy for a guy in his fifties, looking something like Denny with his hair flopping in his face (and sang 'Darlin' well). The support act Christopher Cross was roped in to sing 'I Can Hear Music' and other parts very true to Carl's spirit.

Tris

John. Now here is one top bloke. He is bloody amazing, maybe that's why we got on so well.

John thanks for a great rendition of Darlin mate.

Alyn on BBB

John C really bashes those pig skins hard - and works overtime!! This rythem section is amazing.

The Trader on BBB

"He's a great singer and musician and a great guy too"

David Marks - The Beach Boys since 1962

John Cowsill has as much talent as any other great rock star that you'll ever see. The drumming can only improve now that he's it. And his vocals are amazing.

David C. on Shut Down

John Cowsill has a great voice and did a knock out job on "Darlin" and "Help Me Rhonda".

CTS33FAN on thebeachboys forum

Hey John, I finally got to see you with the Beach Boys in Ventura. Frankly I was blown away with your vocals especially the first piece you sang. I knew you could sing, but had no idea that your vocals were so amazing. You are by far the best singer in the band ...

Mary on cowsill.com

I'm going to tell you that John sounded great and stole the show--like everyone on this site, I'm somewhat biased. What I really love every year though is overhearing others after the show who didn't have childhood crushes talking about how good he was.

Carol on cowsill.com

(in response to traders question of "Quick question - I have never seen the BB's do "Duke Of Earl" but I have heard recordings where it sounds so soulful - so who sings lead?"
Yeah Chris Farmer does the leads for the verses but the "soulful" section at least to me is "I know I'm gonna love you, yes I 'm gonna love you Cause I'm the duke... " and that part is sung by John Cowsill. (and PRotella's response "To be honest, one of the times I saw it performed, I thought it was the best song of the whole concert!")

richep

the strong, soaring tenor of singer-keyboardist John Cowsill (of the Cowsills fame) carried the group until the final third of the set, when the 10 of them unleashed a string of hits from the original band's early days.

Doug P.