Legendary Rock Band JEFFERSON STARSHIP Releases New Single 'Jetpack'

Legendary rock band JEFFERSON STARSHIP returns with "Jetpack", an explosive new single available today across all digital platforms, accompanied by an official lyric video.

JEFFERSON STARSHIP is currently on tour with DEEP PURPLE, and "Jetpack" captures the energy, musicianship, and adventurous spirit that have defined the band for more than five decades while showcasing the creative force of JEFFERSON STARSHIP today.

Adding a special connection to the band's history, "Jetpack" was recorded at 2200 Studios, which was formerly the legendary Record Plant — the same studio where JEFFERSON STARSHIP recorded some of the landmark music from its storied catalog. The track also features longtime JEFFERSON STARSHIP bassist Pete Sears on bass, bringing another direct link between the band's celebrated past and its music today.

JEFFERSON STARSHIP singer/guitarist Cathy Richardson comments: "[JEFFERSON STARSHIP guitarist] Jude [Gold] had written a song around the chorus that was kind of a love song about wanting to disappear with someone into the cosmos. He asked me to take a stab at some different lyrics. I loved the music and the 'Jetpack' hook was really strong. I thought about why I would want to strap on a rocket and blast off the planet, and the words just came spilling out. We recorded it a while ago with a different ending, but then I had an idea for an outro, and I really wanted to hear the band jam out over that chord progression and go to space musically."

"Jetpack" is a classic rock anthem built for the stage, the open road, and anyone ready to escape the ordinary. The release comes as JEFFERSON STARSHIP continues performing for audiences across North America with DEEP PURPLE before returning to its "Runaway Again" tour, giving fans an opportunity to experience the band at the same moment it introduces a new chapter of music.

JEFFERSON STARSHIP is one of the most successful arena rock bands of the '70s and '80s, earning three platinum and eight gold records, as well as numerous Top 40 Billboard singles. They celebrated their 50th anniversary, a rare milestone that only a few bands ever achieve.

Founded by Paul Kantner in the '70s, JEFFERSON STARSHIP was conceived as a collective of musical adventurers contributing to his epic concept albums and eventual catalog of rock classics. When the current lineup came together in 2012, with many members having joined years earlier, Kantner couldn't have predicted the band would become the road-conquering force they are today.

The five members of JEFFERSON STARSHIP often describe themselves as both a "family" and a "gang," with a sense of camaraderie that shines through in their performances. Over the years, they've played in all 50 U.S. states, five continents, and countless countries. A recent tour of New Zealand was noted as one of the band's favorites, and their live shows continue to offer a non-stop mix of rock hits.

The band's current lineup includes founding member David Freiberg, drummer Donny Baldwin (who first joined in 1982),keyboardist Chris Smith (who joined in 1998),guitarist Jude Gold (who joined in 2012),and singer/guitarist Cathy Richardson (who joined in 2008 after Kantner saw her perform with BIG BROTHER AND THE HOLDING COMPANY). As JEFFERSON STARSHIP celebrates its 50th anniversary, the band reflects on the legacy of Paul Kantner, who passed away in 2016. The spirit of exploration and adventure he instilled in the band lives on in their music and performances. As Gold puts it, "To me, that 'Paul Kantner thing'...getting on a rocket ship and blasting off into the unknown...is the very essence of JEFFERSON STARSHIP. And that spirit is very much alive in the band today."

Photo courtesy of Primary Wave Music PR