Press Release 2/4/2000 - BlackHawk Regroups

Nashville, TN - Van Stephenson, vocalist/lead guitarist for the multi-platinum Arista/Nashville recording group BlackHawk, officially announced his departure from the group --- effect immediately. Stephenson, who has waged a successful battle against melanoma over the past year, based his decision to leave the band upon the struggle with his illness.

Remarks Van Stephenson, "I have re-evaluated my priorities and feel that it is more important for me to spend time at home with my family rather than spend the majority of my time traveling. Being diagnosed with cancer was one of the most devastating events of my life, but winning the battle with this disease and feeling that I have a second chance at a future has allowed me to realize what I value most which is my family. I owe it to them to spend as much time as possible at home.

Stephenson's contributions to the group BlackHawk include 4 albums with sales nearing 4,000,000 units and 9 Top 10 hits. In late spring of this year, the band plans to release a Greatest Hits album, containing 3 previously unreleased tracks. "I Need You All The Time," the new single from this Arista/Nashville hits package will officially impact country radio on Monday, February 28th.

"Henry Paul and Dave Robbins are two of my best friends and have been incredibly supportive throughout this very trying time," continues Van Stephenson. "I wish for them the continued success they truly deserve and I will be cheering them on from the sidelines."

BlackHawk member Dave Robbins stated, "I have been friends with Van over the past twenty years and I totally understand his decision. The band plans to continue touring, as we have been over the past year in Van's absence, and to continue making great records. But as a part of this organization, his contribution will be greatly missed by all involved."

Band member Henry Paul continues, "With all that Van has been through recently, I respect and admire his decision. Van, Dave and I plan to continue to write together-those efforts are a big part of what made this band successful to begin with. So to some degree, he will still be involved, even though he won't be a part of the tour. Our other band members, Dale Oliver, Randy Threet and Bobby Huff have really pitched in to cover Van's part of the show and have done an excellent job-my hat's off to them as well."

Stephenson, who lives in Nashville, plans to continue focusing his energies on his songwriting career.