Former Member of Blue Öyster Cult Albert Bouchard Talks Billy Joel Tribute and "More Cowbell" on the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast
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Blue Öyster Cult was inducted into the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2008. Albert Bouchard will be performing with some past and current members of the band at LIMEHOF's 20th Anniversary Concert Honoring Billy Joel on June 7th at the Tilles Center.
Albert Bouchard, a globally recognized Grammy® Nominated songwriter and rock drummer, has sold over 24 million albums worldwide. As a co-founder of the renowned band 'Blue Öyster Cult,' his innovative drumming style has left an indelible mark on both fellow musicians and devoted fans.
Early Musical Journey
Albert embarked on his musical journey at a young age, growing up on a bustling family farm in Clayton, New York, amidst six siblings. His inaugural musical endeavor, 'The Regal Tones,' featured Albert on drums alongside his brother Joe and cousin Teddy. Their performances, often held on weekends, quickly gained popularity, with barn dances turning into sold-out sensations. Albert's musical pursuits led him to college, where he formed the successful band 'Travesty,' ultimately prompting him to leave college and establish what would later evolve into Blue Öyster Cult.
Blue Öyster Cult and Global Recognition
In 1967, Albert co-founded Blue Öyster Cult, a heavyweight rock ensemble originating from New York. The band's rapid ascent to fame saw the release of several albums, notably the 1976 hit 'Agents of Fortune,' distributed by Columbia Records, featuring their chart-topping single 'Don't Fear the Reaper.' This iconic track soared up the Billboard charts, achieving international acclaim and securing a permanent spot in rock history. Albert's influential presence within the band was instrumental in shaping its trajectory, even inspiring the legendary "More Cowbell" sketch on Saturday Night Live, starring Christopher Walken and Will Ferrell.
Blue Coupe and Grammy Accolades
Following his tenure with Blue Öyster Cult, Albert collaborated with esteemed acts such as The Mamas & The Papas, the Spencer Davis Group, and Peter Noone of Hermans Hermits. After a brief hiatus to pursue academic endeavors, obtaining both a BA and MA in English, Albert formed 'The Brain Surgeons' before co-founding the successful outfit Blue Coupe, featuring renowned bassist Dennis Dunaway from Alice Cooper. Their critically acclaimed album 'Tornado on the Tracks' garnered multiple Grammy nominations and showcased the exceptional talent of The Doors' guitarist, Robby Krieger. Blue Coupe's ongoing tours across North America and Europe, including standout performances at the New York City Halloween Parade, continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Albert remains an active presence in the music scene, touring internationally and imparting his knowledge to aspiring musicians.
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