Famous rock band performing multiple shows at Strip venue
Tommy Shaw, the legendary rock guitarist of the band Styx, has made a triumphant return to Las Vegas for an extended engagement at The Venetian Theatre. The band is showcasing their triple-platinum album “Pieces of Eight” in its entirety, along with other classic hits like “You’re Fooling Yourself,” “Blue Collar Man,” and “Renegade.” Fans can catch their performances this weekend, with shows running through Wednesday and concluding on Jan. 30-31.
In a recent interview with Shaw, he shared some fascinating insights into his life outside of music. One intriguing detail is that he currently resides in a house previously owned by disco icon Donna Summer. Shaw moved into the Nashville property around 12 years ago, after purchasing it from Summer’s family following her passing in 2012. The house still retains traces of Summer’s unique style, including a door leading to her beauty shop and wooden floors for dancing, creating a nostalgic and inspiring atmosphere.
Growing up in Montgomery, Alabama, Shaw revealed that he struggled with reading as a child, describing himself as a “remedial” reader. Despite his early difficulties, his passion for music fueled his drive to succeed. Over the years, Shaw has become an avid reader, immersing himself in a diverse selection of books. He prefers physical copies over e-readers, often picking up new titles at the airport. Some of his current recommendations include “Immortal” by Sue Lynn Tan, “The Uncool” by Cameron Crowe, and “Who Knew” by Barry Diller.
Another interesting development in Styx is the addition of bassist Terry Gowan in 2024. Notably, Gowan is the younger brother of keyboardist Lawrence Gowan, a longtime member of the band. Shaw praised both brothers for their musical talents and dedication to their craft, underscoring the close-knit bond shared by Styx members. Despite their enduring success, Shaw emphasized that Styx remains first and foremost a band of passionate musicians, united by their love for creating and performing music.
While reflecting on the band’s evolution, Shaw acknowledged the integral role that music plays in bringing the members together. Styx’s core lineup includes Shaw, Lawrence Gowan, James “J.Y.” Young, Chuck Panozzo, Todd Sucherman, and Will Evankovich. He dismissed the notion of Styx as merely a “brand,” preferring to view the band as a group of individuals united by their shared passion for music. Shaw’s genuine enthusiasm for performing, recording, and writing music continues to drive Styx’s creative endeavors.
In Las Vegas, music enthusiasts have been treated to an array of captivating performances across various venues. At Terry Fator’s show, audiences witnessed a mesmerizing rendition of Roy Orbison’s “Crying,” while Bucky Heard’s album premiere at the Italian American Club Showroom featured special guests like Bill Medley and Stephanie Calvert. The city’s vibrant entertainment scene offers a diverse range of live shows, from lounge performances to nightclub events, providing ample opportunities to experience the magic of live music.
Overall, Tommy Shaw’s return to Las Vegas with Styx promises an unforgettable experience for fans of classic rock. With their distinctive sound, dynamic performances, and enduring legacy, Styx continues to captivate audiences with their timeless music. As they take the stage at The Venetian Theatre, Shaw and his bandmates are set to deliver an electrifying showcase of their iconic hits, cementing their status as rock music legends.