American singer Tim Owens joined the Al McKay Allstars in 1996. Photo: Ong Soon Hin/The Star
Imagine spending your childhood idolising an artiste, only to find yourself sharing the stage with them years later.
This came true for American singer Tim Owens in 1996 when former Earth, Wind & Fire guitarist Al McKay recruited him for his Al McKay Allstars band.
Owens secured the lead vocalist spot after a friend, who was in the band, recommended him to McKay before leaving the group.
Today, Owens still remembers the shock he felt upon receiving the offer.
“I’ve had the fortune of standing on stage with Al for over 20 years. Who would’ve thought that the man behind the records I listened to as a child would be my friend? It’s surreal,” the 56-year-old told StarLifestyle.
The Earth, Wind & Fire Experience concert took place at Mega Star Arena in Kuala Lumpur on Nov 12. Photo: Handout
Owens was in Kuala Lumpur last month for his Earth, Wind & Fire Experience concert with the Al McKay Allstars at Mega Star Arena.
The one-night show, organised by Milestone Production, had the crowd grooving to hits like Boogie Wonderland, September, Let’s Groove and more.
All-star power
The Al McKay Allstars was formed by McKay in 1990 – seven years after the extended hiatus of Earth, Wind & Fire and nine years after McKay left the legendary funk group.
Devoted to honouring Earth, Wind & Fire’s sound and legacy, the 13-piece band brings to life the group’s classics in the original keys with the same energetic feel.
Born into a family of music, Owens always felt destined to walk down the musical path.
Growing up, he was exposed to a rich blend of soul, blues and gospel music, which laid the foundation for his career.
Owens made his debut with the album 'Just Wanna Love You' in late 1989. Photo: Ong Soon Hin/The Star.“My mum played a lot of Nat King Cole, my dad played B.B. King and my brothers would have Earth, Wind & Fire on repeat all the time. I also grew up singing in church, so The Clark Sisters were a big influence,” he said.
At a young age, Owens moved to Dallas, Texas, where he attended a performing arts school.
He later enrolled in Berklee College of Music in Boston and went on to release his debut (and lone) album Just Wanna Love You in late 1989.
The project included hits like I’m Hooked and Smile, which both charted for multiple weeks on Billboard’s Hot R&B Singles chart.
“After that record, I went into writing and producing. That’s how I ended up working with K-Ci & JoJo and other groups.
“Al called me to join his band after that, and we toured Europe in 2003 ... That became my exclusive job,” he added.
An insightful journey
Owens’ 28-year journey with the Al McKay Allstars allowed him to discover an unexpected talent within himself: the ability to lead.
He currently anchors the vocal section in the Allstars lineup.
“I never saw myself as a leader. I always thought you had to be a little rigid to be a leader, and I’m not like that,” he shared.
However, observing the way McKay led his group strengthened Owens’ leadership skills and love for music.
Together with Earth, Wind & Fire, Al McKay has won six Grammys. Photo: Al McKay Allstars/Instagram
When asked how he navigates conflict, given there are 12 other members in the band, Owens said he always centres his approach around the band’s core mission, which is to prioritise music.
“I once went onstage after having a conflict with someone, but the moment we’re up there, everything dissipates because of the music. Our music doesn’t allow conflicts as it goes against what we sing and talk about,” he said.
Owens’ time with the band also rewarded him with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. For example, meeting the former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela.
As the story goes, the Al McKay Allstars were checking into a hotel in South Africa 15 years ago when the members were asked to make way for an important government official.
The Al McKay Allstars comprises 13 members, all handpicked by Earth, Wind & Fire guitarist Al McKay.
“We stepped aside and at that moment, (Nelson) Mandela walked in.
“I had dreadlocks at the time, and when he walked by us, he looked up to me and said he liked my hairstyle. I almost fainted on the spot!” Owens recalled.
That moment is just one of the many personal highs Owens has. Looking ahead, there are still many more goals he hopes to achieve.
He’s currently preparing to release new music with the Al McKay Allstars and hopes to take up some film projects in the future.
For now, Owens is content with all he’s achieved, and his focus remains on using his songs to bring more happiness and positivity to the world.
“My goal in life is to communicate love and make the world a better place through music,” he concluded.
