Tod Howarth shared his experiences and challenges during his time with Ace Frehley in a recent interview with Denim And Leather. He focused on financial mismanagement and label decisions that impacted his career.
“We were on tour with Iron Maiden after ‘Second Sighting’ was released. The album had a couple of singles and was doing okay,” Howarth explained. “The tour wasn’t planned well financially. That wasn’t my fault. I didn’t have anything to do with that, but I could have stepped in and said, ‘Hey, we’re spending way too much money.’ We ran out of money and they went bankrupt on that tour. So, we had to leave.”
“The label made their decision as things were falling apart. They wanted to get the band back in and do another record, but they wanted Ace to write and sing everything without my involvement,” he continued. “I partly blamed myself for this situation. The Ace fans wanted to see Ace and Ace-styled material. I understand that even more now.”
“I had three children, a family, and a house at that point. I wondered how I could support myself without writing or singing songs. It felt like a slap in the face,” Howarth added. “I called Ace and told him I couldn’t stay. I needed to try my luck with a solo deal or form another band. I couldn’t make money without publishing rights or other income. He understood and said, ‘I wish you wouldn’t go, but I understand what you have to do.’ That’s exactly what happened.”
This revelation highlights the internal struggles and decisions that transformed Howarth’s career and led to his departure from the band.
The situation with Howarth’s departure created significant changes in both musicians’ careers.
Ultimate Classic Rock documented Howarth’s significant contributions to Frehley’s Comet. His keyboard work and vocals brought a unique dimension to the band’s sound. This marked a departure from Frehley’s traditional guitar-driven style.
Frehley released ‘Trouble Walkin” in 1989 after the financial troubles and Howarth’s exit. Ultimate Classic Rock noted the album’s return to Frehley’s solo roots. Both fans and critics responded positively to this change.
Industry sources tracked Howarth’s career after leaving Frehley. He formed Four By Fate with John Regan, showing his resilience in creating new opportunities despite the setback.
These events demonstrated how financial mismanagement and creative differences affect band dynamics. Such challenges often lead to career-defining decisions for all involved parties.
