John Cowan (born August 24, 1952, in Evansville, Indiana) is an American musician and vocalist known for his work in progressive bluegrass, country, rock and soul. He is best known as the longtime lead singer and bass guitarist for New Grass Revival and for his work with The Doobie Brothers.

Music career

Born in Evansville, Cowan became a prominent figure in the progressive bluegrass movement after joining New Grass Revival in 1974. Alongside musicians including Sam Bush and Béla Fleck, Cowan remained with the influential group until it disbanded in 1989.

Cowan subsequently pursued a solo career and worked with numerous major artists, including Garth Brooks, Steve Earle, Travis Tritt and Wynonna Judd. He also performed with the Sky Kings and Sam Bush’s touring band.

Cowan first played bass with The Doobie Brothers during the 1990s and returned to the group in 2010, becoming a longtime touring member while continuing to record and perform bluegrass and roots music.

Over his career, Cowan has become particularly recognized for combining bluegrass instrumentation with powerful rock, soul and R&B-influenced vocals.