Oscar and two-time Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Stephen Bishop launched his illustrious career with his debut smash album Careless in 1976. Now, he’s closing the chapter on 50 remarkable years in the music industry with his 20th and final album THIMK, out August 15 - a lifetime of stories captured in one unforgettable album.
Debut single “Now That I’ve Hit The Big Time,” with guest artists Eric Clapton on guitar and Sting on vocals, is also out today with an accompanying official music video on Stephen’s YouTube channel. Originally composed in the early 1970s as a heartfelt tribute to his mother, it captures his early musical roots and the lasting influence of a mother's love. THIMK also features a stunning lineup of Bishop’s closest friends and legendary collaborators, including Art Garfunkel, Jimmy Webb, Graham Nash, Dave Grusin, Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, Christopher Cross, David Pack, Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell of America, David Benoit, Marilyn Martin, among many other extraordinary talents.
Inspired by a rediscovered eccentric pin from the 1980s, THIMK is produced by acclaimed singer-songwriter, producer, and guitarist Marcus Eaton, a longtime collaborator of David Crosby, and executive produced by renowned music executive Liz Kamlet. For collectors and fans of physical media, it will be available on CD and custom-colored vinyl, with pre-orders starting today here. Each vinyl includes an exclusive booklet, and signed editions will also be offered. Every CD and vinyl purchase includes two bonus songs not available on streaming platforms, plus behind-the-scenes footage from the making of the album and never-before-seen videos from Stephen’s career.
THIMK also features performances by some of the industry's most celebrated session musicians and friends, including legendary bassists Nathan East (Eric Clapton, Phil Collins), keyboardist Greg Phillinganes (Toto, Stevie Wonder, Bee Gees), Leland Sklar (James Taylor, Phil Collins, Toto), and Sean Hurley (John Mayer, Alanis Morissette), singer Leah Kunkel (James Taylor, Art Garfunkel), acclaimed multi-instrumentalist Greg Leisz (Jackson Browne, k.d. lang, Eric Clapton); talented rock drummer Nic Collins (Genesis, Phil Collins) — son of Phil Collins, continuing his father’s musical legacy; songwriter Jack Tempchin (Eagles, Glenn Frey) on harmonica, keyboardist Steve Porcaro (Toto, Michael Jackson); rising modern pop-jazz drummer Jake Reed (Katy Perry, Laufey) and world-renowned drummer Steve Gadd (Paul Simon, Eric Clapton).
In this heartfelt final chapter, Bishop looks back on his musical journey with warmth and gratitude, stating,
“After five decades of recording music and performing, I figured it was time to close this chapter of my music career. THIMK — my 20th and final album — is a celebration of friendship, legacy, and all the people who’ve been part of this long, wonderful ride. I’ve developed a bit of arthritis in my hands over the past few years, so I wanted to give this last album everything I had while I still could. I’m proud of it — and grateful for the chance to spend my life doing what I love.”
Tracklist
Now That I’ve Hit The Big Time
Only The Heart Within You
She’ll Always Be My Girl
In The Limelight (Alternate Version)
The Money Girl
Liz (So In Love With You)
Really Wanting You
One More Night
You Don’t Need My Love
It Might Be You (feat. Dave Grusin)
Under The Rainbow
A Message From Stephen
Dance Off The Moon - CD/Vinyl Exclusive
You Can Laugh at Me - CD/Vinyl Exclusive
