Episode 8: Colin Gawel of Watershed - Stories of Rock n’ Roll n’ Resilience

Colin Gawel, is the co-founder, guitarist, and co-lead singer of WATERSHED, one of my favorite bands of the past 30 years. Hailing from Columbus, OH, Watershed blends loud guitars with big hooks, delivering raw, rootsy power-pop and down-to-earth rock 'n' roll—think Cheap Trick, The Kinks, Georgia Satellites, and Bruce Springsteen to name a few influences. Powered by a battered Fender Telecaster, Marshall amps, and a driving rhythm section, you'll be singing along after just one chorus, with lyrics that hit close to home, that often will remind you of someone, someplace, or some familiar, relatable situation. 

Colin shares Watershed's origin story—forming in elementary school (!), committing to the band in college, and their unwavering passion for making music together. He reflects on their journey through the major-label machine—signed to Epic Records, then dropped—yet always pressing forward, both on the road and in the studio, crafting standout records like their latest, Blow It Up Before It Breaks.

Beyond Watershed, Colin tells the tales of opening up for Insane Clown Posse (!), forming a Cheap Trick tribute band, his solo music, and Watershed's upcoming dates in Columbus this summer. You'll find all of Watershed's music at all the digital music  providers and at WatershedCentral.com. In addition to all that, be sure also to check out PencilStorm.com, where Colin and a crew of passionate writers dive into music, movies, sports, and more.