CLEARFIELD – John Kay and Steppenwolf rocked a huge crowd at Thrills In The Hills on Saturday. Frenzied fans were on their feet and rushing the stage when the Wolf Pack unleashed their rock ‘n’ roll fury. Playing songs that spans some 39 years, they connected with a crowd as diverse as the band itself.
John Kay, who founded the band in 1967, born Joachim Krauledat, was born April 12, 1944, in war-torn Germany. Growing up listening to Armed Forces Radio, he was inspired by the likes of Chuck Berry and Little Richard. At age 13, John decided to make rock and roll his life. “Considering I was only 13, legally blind, spoke the wrong language and lived on the wrong side of the ocean, maybe I was a little optimistic.”
The group’s first few releases did nothing for sales, but their third attempt was destined to become a rock and roll classic. “Born To Be Wild” broke out on the charts in 1968 and the line from the song “Heavy Metal Thunder,” in reference to the sound of motorcycles, gave the new style of music it’s name. The song was immortalized on the soundtrack of Dennis Hopper’s film classic “Easy Rider.”
The next single “Magic Carpet Ride” was a fusion of hard rock and psycadelic pop that went on to be Steppenwolf’s second million seller. From there on the band’s albums produced material that made political and social statements that were brilliant and well sold.
Speaking to the crowd about the importance of standing up for what we believe in and uniting together as one in our country, John Kay spoke of his dedication to human rights and the support of our troops. Although John Kay is the only original member, he joins an elite group of musicians; Michael Wilks (keyboards and bass), Ron Hurst (drums) and Danny Johnson (guitar) who toured with Alice Cooper.
Along with his wife, Jutta Maue Kay, John Kay formed “The Maue Kay Foundation” in 2004 which supports individuals and organizations engaged in the protection of wildlife, the environment and human rights.
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