Smith/Kotzen Explained

Smith/Kotzen
Origin:Turks and Caicos Islands
Years Active:2020–present
Label:BMG

Smith/Kotzen is the name of a musical collaboration between musicians Adrian Smith of Iron Maiden and Richie Kotzen of The Winery Dogs.[1] [2]

Their self-titled debut album, released on March 26, 2021, was described by the Ultimate Classic Rock as a mix of "blues, hard rock, traditional R&B and more."[3] [4] [5] [6] Kotzen also added jazz fusion elements to some sections.[7] Smith/Kotzen was supported by a first single released in January 2021, titled "Taking My Chances".[1] [2]

Both musicians share guitar, bass, vocal, composing and production duties on the album.[1] [3] [4] [5] Kotzen also plays drums on five tracks and Tal Bergman, Richie's longstanding friend and touring partner, replaces him on songs "You Don’t Know Me", "I Wanna Stay" and "'Til Tomorrow".[3] [4] The album also features special guest performance from Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain on "Solar Fire".[3] [4]

Discography

Studio albums

Extended Plays

Notes and References

  1. Carter . Emily . January 26, 2021 . Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen announce debut Smith/Kotzen album . . London . Wasted Talent . February 23, 2021.
  2. News: . Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen Officially Announce Collaboration; First Single 'Taking My Chances' Now Available . . . December 10, 2020 . February 28, 2021.
  3. . January 26, 2021 . Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen Announce Debut LP . Ultimate Classic Rock . . . February 28, 2021.
  4. Roche . Sam . January 27, 2021 . Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen detail debut album Smith/Kotzen . . . . February 23, 2021.
  5. Grow . Kory . January 26, 2021 . Iron Maiden's Adrian Smith Teams With Guitarist Richie Kotzen for Bluesy, Hard-Rock Side Project . . New York City . . January 27, 2021.
  6. DeRiso . Nick . February 22, 2021 . March 2021 New Music Releases . Ultimate Classic Rock . . . February 23, 2021.
  7. News: Graff . Gary . Gary Graff . March 22, 2021 . Iron Maiden's Adrian Smith teams with guitarist Richie Kotzen for 'Smith/Kotzen' debut album . . . April 2, 2021.