“Encouraging Words” stands as a pivotal album by the Rochester rock band Black Sheep, showcasing the collaborative efforts of guitarist Don Mancuso and singer Lou Gramm. Released in 1975, the album follows the success of their self-titled debut and features tracks that blend elements of hard rock with poignant lyricism.

Mancuso and Gramm’s synergy is evident in the album’s sound, with Mancuso’s dynamic guitar work complementing Gramm’s powerful vocals. Despite not achieving the same commercial success as their debut, “Encouraging Words” remains a significant contribution to Black Sheep’s discography, capturing the essence of the band’s musical journey and the creative prowess of Mancuso and Gramm.

Songs:
1. When It All Makes Sense
2. To Whom It May Concern
3. The Change
4. All I Am
5. Chain On Me
6. Encouraging Words
7. Half Way Home
8. I Don’t Need The Worry

Well, let me take you back to the beginning. It all started with my love affair with music. From the moment I picked up my first guitar I knew music was my calling.

It’s funny how opportunities come knocking when you least expect it. One day, bass player Bruce Turgon heard me playing outdoors at a dance gig with a band called Maelstrom. I guess I was playing pretty loud because he heard me from half a mile away! He liked what he heard and invited me for an audition. That chance encounter led to some incredible experiences, starting with the formation of Black Sheep with Lou Gramm.

Those early days were a whirlwind of gigs and adventures. I was pulled out of high school, and we toured the nation, sharing stages with icons like Procol Harem, Ted Nugent, and even KISS.

We were young, hungry, and ready to conquer the world. We caught the attention of A&R folks, and before we knew it, we were playing at Max’s Kansas City in NYC in front of several record labels.

Chrysalis Records took notice and offered us a deal, marking us as their first American act. Although our time with them was short-lived, Capitol Records soon came knocking, offering us a three-record deal.

And so, the self-titled album “Black Sheep” was born, crafted in the heart of NYC at the iconic Record Plant studios. Follows soon after with the album “Encouraging Words”.

It was a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows, but through it all, the music never stopped, and the legacy of Black Sheep lives on.

Songs:
1. Far Side Of The Sun
2. Freight Train
3. Let Me Stay
4. Little or A Lot
5. Payin Your Dues
6. Power to Heal
7. Shauna
8. Woman
9. Woman Back Home
10. Broken Promises