The History of Jonah Koslen & Breathless

Breathless, a band that many Clevelander's consider to be among the quintessential Cleveland rock groups, (along with Eric Carmen (Rasberries), Joe Walsh (James Gang) the Michael Stanley Band and others) had it's brief, productive, blaze of glory from 1978 to 1981.

During this time EMI-America Records released two acclaimed recordings, "Breathless" and "Nobody Leaves This Song Alive". The 'records' (containing such songs as "Takin' It Back", "Glued to the Radio", "Walk Right In", "Happy Endings", "My Heart's In Hiding", among others) became local NE /Ohio hits and garnered an international cult following.

The greatest hits CD, "Jonah Koslen & Breathless "1978 - 1981" is now available from Line Level Music.

While the public was only privy to the officially released songs, and the new material performed live, behind the scenes there was an abundance of additional songs that never saw the light of day. In 2001, the live recording "Live in the Bubble" was released containing 15 never before heard Breathless recordings.

The band was know to practice 5 days a week, working on new songs daily. Many of these were wonderful songs that the band really enjoyed performing. There was a distinct evolution of the Breathless sound and the material during it's life.

The first official line up of the band included Jonah Koslen (lead guitar and lead vocals), Rodney Psyka (percussion, additional keyboards and vocals), Kevin Valentine (drums), Bob Benjamin (bass and vocals) and Susan Lynch (keyboards and vocals).

When Susan Lynch left the band, she was replace by keyboardist, George Sipl and lead guitarist Alan Green.

Upon George Sipl's departure, the band found it's final member with Mark Avsec (who later co-founded Donnie Iris and the Cruisers)on keyboards and vocals.

This was a very talented, unique and high spirited musical ensemble.

The current line up consists of Jonah Koslen, Rik Williger on keyboards and harmonica, Bill March on bass guitar and vocals and Donny Thompson on drums and vocals. Original members Alan Greene and Rodney Psyka frequently make guest appearances.

Check out Jonah Koslen & Breathless videos on YouTube.

Order your official "Breathless" t-shirt here!