Outlaws (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1967 in Tampa, Florida, United States |
| Founder | Frank Guidry, Hughie Thomasson, Herbie Pino, Hobie O'Brien |
| Headquarters | Tampa , United States |
| Products | Southern rock music |
Outlaws—initially known as The Four Letter Words—is a Southern rock group originating from Tampa, Florida, United States. They achieved prominence with their 1975 single "There Goes Another Love Song" alongside the extended guitar piece "Green Grass and High Tides" featured on their debut record, as well as their 1980 rendition of Stan Jones' renowned "(Ghost) Riders in the Sky".
Formation and Early Development (1967–1974)
The band Outlaws was established in 1967 in Tampa, Florida by guitarists and vocalists Frank Guidry, Hughie Thomasson, Herbie Pino, and Hobie O'Brien, joined by drummer David Dix and bassist Phil Holmberg. Initially called The Four Letter Words, they adopted the name "Outlaws" after Guidry joined, bringing with him the moniker from his previous band.
By early 1968, O'Brien and Holmberg departed to pursue marriage; Frank O'Keefe stepped in as vocalist and bassist. Tommy Angarano (also known as Tommy Tempest) briefly replaced Pino, contributing Hammond organ and vocals before Pino returned following Angarano’s exit.
In spring 1968, under the management of Paul Deutekom, the group traveled to Epic Studios in New York to record an album that ultimately remained unreleased due to disagreements. Returning to Tampa, they recorded another unreleased project at Criteria Studios in Miami, produced by Phil Gernhard. During this period, bassist Ronny Elliott temporarily replaced Guidry; O'Keefe briefly switched to guitar but resumed bass duties after Elliott's departure in 1969. Pino expanded his guitar contributions, and drummer Monte Yoho joined as a substitute for Dix.
By early 1970, the lineup incorporated members from the Dave Graham Group—Hughie Thomasson, Frank O'Keefe, Dave Dix, Billy Jones, and Dave Graham—shifting their style towards country-rock influenced by Poco. They recorded a cover of the Doors' "Five to One" as a demo for a potential contract that never materialized. This formation disbanded by spring 1970; the band severed ties with Deutekom. Yoho and Pino rejoined, but diminishing gig opportunities by 1971 left the band’s future uncertain.
In 1971, singer/guitarist Henry Paul, after spending time in Greenwich Village, created Sienna with Yoho and O'Keefe—a country rock ensemble. In 1972, Thomasson returned from New York, merging Sienna back into Outlaws.
Billy Jones came back from Boulder, Colorado in 1973, transitioning to guitar and establishing the group’s first prominent guitar trio known as "The Florida Guitar Army." O'Keefe temporarily exited during 1973–74; Thomas "Buzzy" Meekins and Rick Birkbeck substituted on bass.
Management shifted in 1974 when Charlie Brusco took over. Following an introduction by Lynyrd Skynyrd’s lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, Alan Walden—brother of Capricorn Records founder Phil Walden—joined as co-manager. Outlaws became the inaugural band signed to Arista Records under Clive Davis, who witnessed their performance opening for Lynyrd Skynyrd in Columbus, Georgia that year. Van Zant is said to have told Davis: "If you don't sign Outlaws, you're the dumbest music person I've ever met—and I know you're not."
The Outlaws’ earliest significant tracks feature "There Goes Another Love Song" and "Green Grass and High Tides", both from their 1975 self-titled debut album, Outlaws. Their most successful single was the 1980 rendition of "(Ghost) Riders in the Sky" from the album Ghost Riders, which climbed to No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Although often categorized under Southern rock, the Outlaws carved out a unique niche by combining country and rock elements, enriched with vocal harmonies reminiscent of bands such as Buffalo Springfield, the Byrds, and Eagles. Their distinctive use of three- and four-part harmonies separated them from peers who typically featured a single lead singer.
Guitarist and vocalist Hughie Thomasson was central to shaping the band’s sound. Known for his signature style on the Fender Stratocaster—which blended a near-country approach with smooth blues phrasing—he earned the nickname "The Flame" and was later inducted into the Fender Hall of Fame. Lead guitarist Billy Jones favored a Gibson Les Paul, skillfully switching between clean and distorted sounds, especially notable on "Green Grass and High Tides."
The period between 1975 and 1980 best encapsulates their musical identity. During these years, the Outlaws supported major acts outside the Southern rock genre, including The Who, The Rolling Stones, Aerosmith, Queen, Black Sabbath, Rush, Blue Öyster Cult, Ted Nugent, Peter Frampton, Foghat, Van Halen, and REO Speedwagon. This broad exposure contributed significantly to their growing fan base across the United States.
Their initial trio of albums—Outlaws (1975), Lady in Waiting (1976), and Hurry Sundown (1977)—are widely regarded as their definitive works, featuring all members from their classic lineup.
Following bassist Frank O'Keefe’s severe neck injury in 1976, left-handed Harvey Dalton Arnold replaced him on Hurry Sundown. Founding member Henry Paul departed after that release to establish the Henry Paul Band, which produced four albums between 1979 and 1982. Freddie Salem took over Paul’s role on vocals and guitar. Drummer David Dix rejoined after Hurry Sundown, teaming up with Monte Yoho to create a dual-drummer setup for Bring It Back Alive (1978), Playin' to Win (1978), and In the Eye of the Storm (1979). Yoho exited by late 1979.
Later years (1980–1996)
Albums released after 1980 exhibited a gradual shift away from the band’s original 1970s sound. Their last significant commercial hit was the Western-themed "Ghost Riders" remake in 1980. Keyboardist Mike Duke, previously with Wet Willie, contributed during this era around 1980-1981.
Billy Jones was dismissed near the end of 1981 due to drug-related issues, leaving Thomasson, Dix, Salem, and new bassist Rick Cua—who joined in 1980—to produce Los Hombres Malo in 1982. Violinist Dave Lane briefly toured with them that year. However, after disappointing sales, Arista Records dropped the group and released a greatest hits compilation at year’s end.
By 1983, the band had returned to performing primarily in clubs with Bob Jenkins replacing Salem. Thomasson, who held rights to the band's name, contemplated quitting music but reunited later that year with Dix and Henry Paul. They expanded their lineup by adding Steve Grisham on guitar and Chuck Glass handling vocals, bass, and keyboards. Signing with Spencer Proffer’s Pasha Records led to the release of Soldiers of Fortune in late 1986.
Chris Anderson replaced Grisham towards the end of 1986; however, poor sales resulted in Pasha being absorbed by CBS Records, leaving the band without a label once again. Anderson stayed until 1989 and returned for a reunion in 2005. Henry Paul remained until 1989 before founding the successful country group BlackHawk.
Throughout the late ’80s into early ’90s, Thomasson fronted a frequently changing lineup that performed mainly at clubs and fairs. Notable members during this period included drummers Barry "B.B." Borden, bassists Ean Evans and Billy Greer, guitarist Chris "Hitman" Hicks, bassist Jeff Howell, among others rotating through.
In 1993, Shrapnel Records—a hard rock label owned by Mike Varney—issued the live album Hittin' the Road Live. The following year saw the release of studio album Diablo Canyon on Varney’s Blues Bureau International label.
Thomasson joined renowned Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd as guitarist in 1996, which sidelined Outlaws activities for nearly ten years due to his key role there. The previously unreleased album So Low surfaced in 2000 to mixed reactions and was largely viewed as Thomasson’s solo project. Subsequently, the band receded from public attention.
Two original members from their peak era passed away in February 1995: guitarist Billy Jones died by suicide at age 45, while bassist Frank O'Keefe succumbed to a drug overdose at age 44.
Reunion (2005–present)
In April 2005, The Outlaws regrouped with four original members—Hughie Thomasson, Henry Paul, Monte Yoho, and David Dix. They were joined by former guitarist Chris Anderson and two newcomers from Paul's country band BlackHawk: Randy Threet on bass and Dave Robbins on keyboards.
Early in 2006, Paul and Robbins departed to focus again on BlackHawk, but The Outlaws pressed forward, participating in the Charlie Daniels Volunteer Jam tour during the summer of 2007. Their final performance with Thomasson took place at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Nevada, just one day before his passing.
On September 9, 2007, Hughie Thomasson passed away due to a heart attack in Brooksville, Florida. Prior to his death, the band had completed the studio album Once an Outlaw, which never received an official release; although a planned 2010 launch was canceled, the album eventually surfaced online unofficially.
The band's iconic song "Green Grass and High Tides" gained renewed attention when it was featured as the closing track in the video game Rock Band, celebrated for its intricate guitar work.
By December 2007, The Outlaws announced their touring schedule for 2008 and confirmed they would continue without Thomasson. Henry Paul stepped into the role of lead vocalist and band leader. The lineup for 2008 included Paul, Yoho, Anderson, guitarist Billy Crain, keyboardist Jon Coleman, and bassist Brett Cartwright—who was soon replaced by Randy Threet. This marked the first iteration of the band without Thomasson, who had been the sole constant member since its inception.
Plans were made for tours extending through 2009 and participation in the Simple Man Cruise alongside Lynyrd Skynyrd in January 2010.
In May 2010, The Outlaws appeared at Long Island Southern Jam with acts such as Marshall Tucker Band, Molly Hatchet, and Blackberry Smoke.
Robbins returned on keyboards for the 2010 tour. During this period, Henry Paul faced a trademark infringement lawsuit filed by Thomasson's widow alleging unauthorized use of the band’s name; had the case been lost, they intended to perform as the 'Henry Paul Band' while maintaining their setlist. In April 2011, the court ruled in favor of Paul, Yoho, and other defendants, allowing them to continue using The Outlaws name.
On July 30, 2012, The Outlaws revealed plans for their first new studio album in twelve years titled It's About Pride, which was released on September 25. The album was accompanied by a documentary DVD called Hidin' Out In Tennessee and received positive critical reception. Many songs were co-written by Paul and guitarist Billy Crain; notably, the closing track was a cover of a Henry Paul Band tune from 1979.
In 2013, Crain departed due to health concerns and was replaced by Steve Grisham returning on guitar.
Founding guitarist Herbie Pino passed away in 2014. Following his death, original members remaining included David Dix, Frank Guidry, Hobie O'Brien, and Phil Holmberg.
The Outlaws issued a live double album titled Legacy Live in 2016.
In 2018, Dale Oliver took over guitar duties from Chris Anderson after internal conflicts. Later that year, Monte Yoho stepped away temporarily for health reasons; drummer Jaran Sorenson filled in during his absence. Yoho returned in 2019 with both drummers performing until Yoho retired in 2021. Since then, Henry Paul has remained as the only member from the classic lineup.
Sorenson exited in February 2022; Michael Grando briefly replaced him before Mike Bailey assumed drumming responsibilities in September of that year.
The band's studio release Dixie Highway came out in 2020.
Steve Grisham retired in June 2021 and was succeeded by Jeff Aulich. After Dale Oliver fell ill late that year, guitarist Jimmy Dormire began touring with the group.
In September 2024, guitarist Freddie Salem passed away at age seventy.
Henry Paul's son, Henry "Little Hank" Paul IV, officially joined The Outlaws as their fourth guitarist and vocalist in 2025.
Members
- Current lineup
- Henry Paul – guitar, lead vocals (1972–1977, 1983–1989, 2005–2006, 2008–present)
- Dave Robbins – keyboards, backing vocals (2005–2006, 2010–present)
- Randy Threet – bass guitar, vocals (2005–present)
- Jeff Aulich – guitar (2021–present)
- Jimmy Dormire – guitar (2021–present)
- Mike Bailey – drums (2022–present)
- Henry Paul IV – guitar, vocals (2025-present)
- Past members
- Hughie Thomasson – guitar, vocals, pedal steel guitar, banjo (1967–1996, 2005–2007; deceased 2007)†
- Frank Guidry – lead vocals, guitar (1967–1968)
- Herb Pino – guitar, vocals (1967–1970, 1971–1972; deceased 2014)†
- David Dix – drums, percussion (1967–1969, 1970, 1977–1987, 2005–2007)
- Phil Holmberg – bass guitar (1967)
- Hobie O'Brien – guitar (1967)
- Frank O'Keefe – bass, guitar, vocals (1967–1973, 1974–1976; deceased 1995)†
- Tommy Angarano – Hammond B3 organ, vocals (1968)
- Ronny Elliot – bass (two weeks in 1968)
- Monte Yoho – drums, percussion (1969, 1970–1979, 2005–2021)
- Dave Graham – guitar, piano, vocals (1970)
- Billy Jones – guitars, keyboards, vocals (1971, 1972–1981; deceased 1995)†
- Buzzy Meekins – bass guitar (1973–1974; deceased 2015)†
- Rick Birkbeck – bass (1974)
- Harvey Dalton Arnold – bass guitar, vocals (1976–1980)
- Freddie Salem – guitars, vocals (1977–1983; deceased 2024)†
- Rick Cua – bass guitar, vocals (1980–1983)
- Mike Duke – keyboards, vocals (1980–1981)
- Bob Jenkins – guitar, vocals (1983)
- Steve Grisham – guitars, vocals (1983–1986, 2013–2021)
- Chuck Glass – bass guitar, keyboards, vocals (1983–1987)
- Chris Anderson – guitars, vocals (1986–1989, 2005–2018)
- Roy McDonald – bass guitar (1987)
- Anthony "Nino" Catanzaro – bass guitar, vocals (1987, 1989–1990, 1992–1993)
- Barry "B. B." Borden – drums and percussion (1987–1995)
- Steve Kaye – bass guitar (1988)
- Rich Parks – guitars and vocals (1988; guest in 1991)
- Ean Evans – bass guitar and vocals (1988–1989, 1992; deceased 2009)†
- David Lane – guitar (1989), violin (guest - 1982)
- Billy Yates – guitars and vocals (1989–1991)
- Billy Greer – bass and vocals (1990)
- Chris "Hitman" Hicks – guitars and vocals (1990–1996)
- Rob Carroll – bass and vocals (1990–1992)
- Timothy Cabe – guitars and vocals (1991–1993)
- Eric Wynne – bass guitar (1992)
- Jeff Howell – bass and vocals (1993–1996; deceased 2022)†
- Billy Davis – guitars and vocals (1993–1994; deceased 2015)†
- Sean Burke – drums and percussion (1995)
- Frank Thomas – substitute drummer (1995)
- Kevin Neal – drums (1995–1996)
- Steven Elliot – temporary guitarist (1996)
- Ric Toole – guitar (2006)
- Billy Crain – guitars and vocals (2008–2013)
- Jon "Squirrel" Coleman – keyboards and backing vocals (2008–2010)
- Brett Cartwright – bass guitar (2008)
- Dale Oliver – guitars (2018–2021)
- Jaran Sorenson – drums and percussion < small >(2019-2022) </ small >
- Michael Grando - drums< small >(2022) </ small >
Studio albums
| Release Year | Album Name | Highest Chart Rankings | Certifications | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US |
CAN | |||
| 1975 | Outlaws | 13 | 48 |
|
| 1976 | Lady in Waiting | 36 | 51 | |
| 1977 | Hurry Sundown | 51 | - | |
| 1978 | Playin' to Win | 60 | 65 | |
| 1979 | In the Eye of the Storm | 55 | - | |
| 1980 | Ghost Riders | 25 | 12 |
|
| 1982 | Los Hombres Malo | 77 | - | |
| 1986 | Soldiers of Fortune | 160 | - | |
| 1994 | Diablo Canyon | - | - | |
| 2000 | 'So Low' [credited to Hughie Thomasson] | - | - | |
| 2007 | 'Once An Outlaw' (unreleased) | - | - | |
| 2012 | It's About Pride | - | - | |
| 2020 | 'Dixie Highway' | - | - | |
Live albums
| Release Year | Album Title | Highest Chart Rankings | Certifications | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US |
CAN | |||
| 1978 | 'Bring It Back Alive' | 29 | 46 |
|
| 1993 | 'Hittin' the Road Live' | - | - | |
Compilation albums
| Release Year | Compilation Title |
|---|---|
| 1982 | Greatest Hits of the Outlaws, High Tides Forever |
| 1996 | Best of the Outlaws: Green Grass and High Tides |
| 2003 | Platinum & Gold Collection: The Best of the Outlaws |
Singles
| Release Year | Song Title | Highest Chart Positions | From Album | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NLD | US | CAN | |||
| 1975 | "There Goes Another Love Song" | 30 | 34 | 56 | Outlaws |
| 1976 | "Breaker-Breaker" | 19 | 94 | 77 | Lady in Waiting |
| 1977 | "Hurry Sundown" | - | 60 | - | Hurry Sundown |
| 1980 | "(Ghost) Riders in the Sky" | - | 31 | 15 | Ghost Riders |
Official video releases
- Outlaws Video LP – live performance – VHS (1983)
Unofficial video releases
- Outlaws Live at The Summit, Houston, Texas – DVD (1977)
- Outlaws Live at The Rockpalast, Loreley, Germany – DVD (1981)
- Outlaws Live at The Tower Theater, Philadelphia – DVD (1982)