Formed back in 1981, Asia is an English progressive and hard rock band originally consisting of members from several other well-known progressive rock bands. John Wetton, lead vocals, bassist, and guitarist, came from the famous band, Roxy Music (known for the song “More Than This”, later covered by “10,000 Maniacs’ Natalie Merchant) King Crimson, UK, Uriah Heep, and Family. On guitar, mandolin, and backing vocals is Steve Howe who at the same time was playing for Yes band and GTR. On keyboards and backing vocals is Geoff Downes, also from Yes and former member of The Buggles (originally did “Video Killed the Radio Star”). Last of the original members is Carl Palmer who plays drums and percussion (also a member of Emerson, Lake & Palmer and a former member of Atomic Rooster).

Asia is undeniably a combination of amazing talents who all have proven their worth long before the band was even formed and this is why they were labeled as a “Supergroup”. The band has been active in the music scene from 1981-1986 and 1989 up to present. In 1982, their self-titled debut album reached 1 in the U.S. on the Billboard album charts and was the best-selling album (with their signature song, “Heat of the Moment”) in the US that year. Although Asia has been through multiple line-up changes, it’s a good news that the current line-up is a reunion of the original members.

In 2006, they formally reformed and started touring again largely focusing in the US. The following years have been tremendously successful for them as they toured worldwide with completely sold out tickets.

“This is the real Asia. There have been other incarnations of the band, but this is the one that the public truly embraced” -Steve Howe, on an interview dating back to 2006.Related Article : JOHN WETTON – “A Little Bit Rough Around The Edges”