Stephen began performing at age 4, professionally at age 12. Throughout a long career Anderson has developed a highly original approach as a composer and instumentalist/vocalist. The 70s and early 80s was an active period during which he lived in San Francisco, playing at such clubs as the Mubuhay Gardens and the Deaf Club; along with bands like the Avengers, Tuxedomoon, Minimal Man, etc. In Nashville Anderson led several bands, including Actuals and Actuel, often sharing bills with bands such as REM, the Brains, Babylon Dance Band, The B-52's, etc, as well as composing music for experimental film and occasional solo guitar performances.
During the mid-80s Anderson was a CBS recording artist (CBS Holland) with releases in Europe (now mostly out of print). While living in N.Y.C he performed at clubs such as NoSeNo, The Pyramid, Danceteria, etc., both solo and with ensemble.
The foremost influence on Anderson,as a guitarist,was jazz guitarist Lenny Breau, his close friend and mentor until Breau's death in 1984.
From early on it was clear that Anderson was given a gift which,through many years and diverse experiences, he has developed into a unique voice. As a visionary,his steadfast refusal to compromise has made commercial success more elusive, but has helped to distinguish him. In this time of imitators, mediocrity, technical overkill, etc., Anderson's music is all the more unique, which is, indeed, one of it's many strengths.
Returning to Nashville (mainly for family reasons) Anderson has spent the last few years writing extensively and playing occasionally, while continuing to record. At present several projects are in progress.
