Shooting Star

The band formed in the late 1970s. After gaining popularity in the Kansas City area and winning some local rock contests sponsored by FM Rock radio station (based in Kansas City) KY102, Shooting Star became the first American group to sign with Virgin Records. They recorded their 1980 debut album in England with producer Gus Dudgeon, best known for his work with Elton John and David Bowie; and had two later albums produced by Kevin Elson who worked prolifically with the band Journey. The band gained national exposure when a number of songs garnered moderate air-play on album-oriented rock radio stations in the US.

Shooting Star initially consisted of Van McLain (guitars, vocals), Bill Guffey (keyboards), Steve Thomas (4) (drums), Ron Verlin (bass), Charles Waltz (violin, keyboards, vocals), and Gary West (lead vocals, guitars, keyboards). Gary West's real name was Gary Hodgden and had previously been in The Beckies. He is the brother to Ron West/Hodgden of Missouri

Members:
Bill Guffey, Charles Waltz, Dennis Laffoon, Gary Hodgden, Keith Mitchell, Norman Dahlor, Rod Lincoln, Ron Verlin, Steve Thomas, Todd Pettygrove, Van McLain