O68 You two met when you were both in a production of Jesus Christ Superstar in 1975 – this year marks your 48th anniversary together – is it true that you two have never had a falling out?
AS We have nothing to fight about – he’s the songwriter and I’m the singer. We’ve always had respect and love for each other.
O68 You’ve done over 5,300 concerts over the years. How has the experience of playing live fueled your longevity as
a duo?
AS We’ve always considered ourselves a live band – we’ve not missed a year of touring except during Covid. Being on the road and playing to live audiences is what it’s always been about for us and what sustains us artistically and career-wise.
O68 In December of 2022 you recorded “Be Tough” which delivers everything people have come to love about Air Supply – soulful lyrics, sweeping vocals, and epic guitar playing. What’s the significance of this song?
AS It’s about the fact that in any relationship, sometimes you need to make difficult decisions and you have to be tough to do that. For instance, if you have to end a relationship, you’ve got to be tough enough to tell the truth and cut the ties. Letting people know how you feel isn’t always easy.
O68 It’s always heartwarming when celebrities use their fame to help charities and organizations in need. Air Supply is a Goodwill Ambassador for the Issa Trust Foundation. Can you talk a little about your involvement in this foundation?
AS The first time we went to Jamaica, we visited the local hospital and toured the prenatal and newborn ward with the Issa Foundation, and it was heartbreaking. They had very little equipment and supplies. We were told that some of the babies wouldn’t survive. With our help, they were able to build a new wing, with air conditioning and enough incubators and supplies. It was quite amazing to go back later and see the results of our donations.
O68 What can we expect from The Lost in Love Experience concert at the Ridgefield Playhouse on September 10th?
AS Vintage Air Supply, new Air Supply, and everything in between. We have a great show planned – very rock and roll – with lots of passion and energy. We aim to please the audience every time we step on stage. •