Quo Connection is a name you might not be familiar with, though this band is making a huge impact on the live scene. Let us take you through a potted history of this incredible tribute to Status Quo.
A band called John Coghlan’s Quo (JCQ) featuring Status Quo’s original drummer, was in existence for 25 years with various line-ups. This came to an end in 2022, as John Coghlan took a step back from touring. The remaining band members, Mick Hughes, Pete Mace and Gainsborough lad Rick Chase were faced with the decision of whether to carry on as a band or pursue other musical projects.
Fortunately, they decided to continue with new drummer Russ Chadd as a tribute band to classic Status Quo under the new name of Quo Connection. The name has real meaning, as they have previously worked with other members of Status Quo. This includes, of course, John Coghlan, the late Alan Lancaster (original Quo bassist), Richie Malone (ex-Quo guitarist), Bob Young (ex-Quo tour manager and blues harp) and Jeff Rich (ex-Quo drummer).
The line-up of Quo Connection…
Mick Hughes (guitar and vocals)
Like all of the band members, Mick grew up with a healthy appetite for classic rock music, including Led Zepplin, and of course Status Quo. He also spent several years in a band called Predatur, who released two albums. Their sound had an uncanny resemblance to Status Quo. Mick was also a member of JCQ for 20 years.
Pete Mace (guitar and vocals)
Playing in various bands through his career including another Status Quo tribute, and a member of JCQ for four years, Pete is an incredible guitarist. Just like Mick, he replicates the ‘Quo’ guitar sound perfectly. Many people have commented how you can’t tell the difference between the guitar sound of QC and Quo. His natural singing voice is so close to that of Francis Rossi, it’s hard to tell the difference!
Russ Chadd (drums)
“A band is only as strong as its drummer” is what many musicians say. And with Russ on the drum stool, Quo Connection is a real force to be reckoned with. Acting as drum coach to John Coghlan, and helping out behind the scenes for many years, Russ Chadd was the obvious choice of drummer. He’s also a ‘whizz’ on the technical side, which is a bonus for any modern band.
Rick Chase (bass and vocals)
Born in Gainsborough, Rick started his career as a bass player in a local rock band called ‘Dodger’. Following that he began his career as lead vocalist, performing around the world with various bands, plus working as a session vocalist for record companies and producers. Rick was a member of JCQ for seven years, and his thunderous bass sound with his great vocals shouldn’t be missed!
Quo Connection is coming to Gainsborough on Saturday 8th March at the Trinity Arts Centre. Don’t miss this opportunity to see the best tribute to Status Quo out there!
Take a look at their website www.quoconnection.com for more information.