Steve Howe

Early Life

Stephen James Howe was born on April 8, 1947, in Holloway, North London, into a middle-class family. Growing up with three older siblings, he was influenced by his parents' diverse record collection, which included artists like Les Paul and Tennessee Ernie Ford. His passion for music ignited at the age of 12 when he received his first guitar, an F-hole acoustic, as a Christmas gift. Howe's early musical influences included classical guitar and jazz, with notable inspirations from Barney Kessel, Wes Montgomery, and Chet Atkins. He attended Holloway School and later Barnsbury Boys' School, leaving at 15 after failing his O-levels.

Career

Howe's professional music career began in 1964 when he joined the rhythm and blues band, the Syndicats. He later transitioned to the psychedelic rock band Tomorrow, where he co-wrote songs and gained recognition. His big break came in 1970 when he joined the progressive rock band Yes, where he became known for his innovative guitar work and backing vocals. Over the years, Howe has released numerous solo albums, including "The Steve Howe Album" and "Natural Timbre," showcasing his versatility as a guitarist and composer. His contributions to Yes and his solo projects have solidified his status as a prominent figure in the progressive rock genre.

Personal Life

In 1968, Howe began a relationship with Pat Stebbings, marrying her shortly after and having a son, Dylan, in 1969. The couple divorced two years later, with Howe gaining custody of Dylan, who later joined him in musical endeavors. In 1975, he married Janet Osborne, with whom he had three children. A vegetarian since 1972, Howe embraces a macrobiotic diet and practices Transcendental Meditation. His preference for personal travel stems from early experiences with Yes, leading him to favor driving himself or using a personal driver. Howe's life reflects a deep commitment to both his family and his artistic pursuits, making him a unique figure in the music world.