Pablo Cruise: A Journey of Smooth Sounds and Enduring Success

Emerging from the vibrant music scene of San Francisco in the early 1970s, Pablo Cruise captivated audiences with their signature blend of soulful melodies, intricate harmonies, and infectious grooves. Led by the enigmatic frontman David Jenkins, the band embarked on a remarkable musical journey that would leave an indelible mark on the industry.

Early Years and Breakthrough

Formed in 1973, Pablo Cruise initially consisted of Jenkins (vocals, guitar), Bud Cockrell (guitar, vocals), Steve Price (bass, vocals), Greg Karp (drums), and Cory Lerios (keyboards). Their self-titled debut album, released in 1975, garnered critical acclaim and spawned the hit single "Whatcha Gonna Do When She Says Goodbye." However, it was their sophomore effort, "A Place in the Sun" (1976), that catapulted them to stardom. The album featured the timeless classic "Cool Love," a song that showcased their exquisite harmonies and Jenkins' enchanting vocals.

Commercial Success and Challenges

Throughout the latter half of the 1970s and into the early 1980s, Pablo Cruise enjoyed immense commercial success. They released a string of platinum-selling albums, including "Worlds Away" (1977), "Part of the Plan" (1978), and "Impact" (1981). Their live performances were renowned for their energy and authenticity, solidifying their reputation as one of the most popular touring acts of the era.

However, despite their achievements, Pablo Cruise also faced challenges. In 1983, Cockrell left the band, casting a shadow over their future. Jenkins' perfectionism and artistic vision sometimes led to conflicts within the group. Additionally, the rise of new musical genres, such as disco and punk, threatened to diminish their popularity.

Later Years and Legacy

In the mid-1980s, Pablo Cruise's commercial success began to wane. They released several albums that failed to match the impact of their earlier work. The band went on hiatus in 1990, with Jenkins pursuing a solo career.

Despite their hiatus, Pablo Cruise's legacy continues to endure. Their songs remain popular on classic rock radio stations and have been covered by numerous artists. In 2013, the band reunited for a special performance at the San Francisco Giants' AT&T Park, proving that their music still resonates with fans around the world.

Members

Original Lineup (1973-1983)

* David Jenkins (vocals, guitar)
* Bud Cockrell (guitar, vocals)
* Steve Price (bass, vocals)
* Greg Karp (drums)
* Cory Lerios (keyboards)

Later Members

* John Pierce (guitar, vocals; replaced Cockrell in 1983)
* Larry Antonino (drums; replaced Karp in 1979)
* Ron Stockert (keyboards; replaced Lerios in 1980)

Discography

* Pablo Cruise (1975)
* A Place in the Sun (1976)
* Worlds Away (1977)
* Part of the Plan (1978)
* Lifeline (1979)
* Impact (1981)
* Out of Our Hands (1983)
* Reflector (1984)
* Its Magic (1987)
* A Whole New World (1989)