Worrall

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Origin: Toronto, Ontario, 🇨🇦
Biography:

Worrall: A Canadian AOR Legacy
Worrall was a Canadian AOR band formed by brothers Rick Worrall and Steve Worrall, whose shared passion for melodic rock left an enduring mark on the music scene. With soaring vocals, dynamic guitar work, and lush keyboard textures, the Worrall brothers carved a niche in the Adult-Oriented Rock (AOR) genre during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

The Early Years
Rick Worrall began his music career in the 1970s, signing with Attic Records in 1978. His albums Night Madness (1979) and High Flyin’ (1980) showcased his skill as a singer-songwriter and gained traction on Canadian radio. During this time, Steve contributed backing vocals to Rick's albums and later joined his band, Night Madness, touring extensively across Canada until 1981.

After several years apart pursuing individual projects, the brothers reunited in the late 1980s to form Worrall. Together, they signed with A&M Records of Canada, recording their debut album in Memphis, Tennessee, under the guidance of producer Jim Gaines, who had worked with Santana, Steve Miller Band, Huey Lewis and the News, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

The Recording of Worrall
The creation of the Worrall album was an unforgettable experience for Rick and Steve. Recorded at a studio owned by Gary Belz and Joe Walsh (of Eagles fame), the sessions brought a magical atmosphere that enriched the music. The brothers stayed at the historic Peabody Hotel, whose storied history added another layer of inspiration.

The recording took place over two phases, spanning 11 weeks in total. Jim Gaines assembled an incredible team of collaborators, including Felton Pilate (music director for M.C. Hammer) who contributed vocal arrangements and added his soulful voice to the track “Take a Good Look Around”. The iconic Memphis Horns provided their signature brass brilliance on “Ordinary Man”, while Jim Jamison from Survivor delivered powerful backing vocals on several tracks.

The sessions were filled with unforgettable moments. One of the highlights was meeting Stevie Ray Vaughan, who visited the studio to begin work on his album In Step. Watching Stevie in action and spending time with him left a lasting impression on the brothers. Another standout moment was when Sean Lane, a then-unknown guitar prodigy, offered to contribute to the project. Lane’s electrifying solo on “Catch Me” elevated the track to new heights, cementing his reputation as a rising star in the guitar world.

Reflecting on the experience, Rick said, “The recording of Worrall represents one of the best times of our lives. There was so much magic and so many memories that have never faded.”

The Album and Its Impact
Released in 1991, Worrall showcased the brothers’ ability to craft emotionally charged melodies and powerful rock anthems. The standout single “In The Heat of the Night” climbed into the Top 30 charts, receiving widespread airplay and establishing the band as a significant presence in the AOR genre. The album’s polished production and rich instrumentation made it a timeless entry in Canadian rock history.

Following the album’s release, Rick and Steve toured across North America and Europe, earning praise for their dynamic live performances. Despite the album’s success, Worrall would remain the duo’s only full-length collaboration, as both brothers eventually shifted focus to solo ventures and new projects.

Rick Worrall’s Journey
After Worrall, Rick continued to evolve as an artist, teaming up with Juno-winning producer Lance Anderson to release When Love Is Right in 2000. The blues-infused album featured contributions from legendary musicians Domenic Troiano, Colin Linden, and Richie Hayward.

In 2007, Rick relocated to Kelowna and immersed himself in musical theatre, performing in acclaimed productions like Les Misérables (as Javert) and Fiddler on the Roof (as Tevye). His admiration for John Denver’s music inspired him to create the symphonic tribute Rocky Mountain High – An Evening of John Denver, which featured collaborations with Denver’s original arranger Lee Holdridge.

Steve Worrall’s Path
Steve’s career expanded into both performance and education. After touring with Worrall, he played guitar and sang with notable Canadian artists like Tom Cochrane, Kim Stockwood, and Amy Sky. In 2005, he founded 4The Music, a music school dedicated to teaching and empowering students.

In 2014, Steve was commissioned by the Tyler McGill Foundation to lead the My First Guitar Program, a free initiative for vulnerable youth in Scarborough. Two years later, he received the TD Canada Trust Music Counts Grant to expand the program. Steve also released a solo album, Ten Emotions, which captured the energy of 1980s rock with synth-driven arrangements and heartfelt songwriting.

Legacy
For Rick and Steve Worrall, Worrall remains a defining moment in their musical journey. The album not only showcased their artistic synergy but also encapsulated the spirit of 80s AOR with its emotional depth, lush production, and memorable melodies.

Though their paths have diverged into solo endeavors and teaching, the brothers’ contributions to Canadian music continue to inspire. Worrall stands as a testament to their talent, passion, and enduring legacy in the world of melodic rock.
-Robert Williston