![A Blast From My Past- Chill Factor on “Backroads” in 1991](http://townsquare.media/site/65/files/2018/07/Kelly-Cordes-1-go.jpg?w=300&h=200&zc=1&s=0&a=t&q=89&w=980&q=75)
A Blast From My Past- Chill Factor on “Backroads” in 1991
CHILL FACTOR
I've often thought about Keith Thunem, and the first band that every gave me a chance to perform. The band was called Chill Factor; A trio of talented, funny guys from Bemidji MN.
We played several clubs in the Bemidji area at the time. Remembering the names of them escapes me. When I saw these pictures last night, it brought back some great memories.
WE FEST
This band was amazing. We cut our own album, "Lazy Ambition" and performed at WeFest; I believe in 1991. This was the same year that we performed on Northern Minnesota Public Televisions music program entitled "Backroads." On a side note; I've always been in media, and was working there as a Membership Manager at the time; as well as working at area radio stations as another side gig.
CHILL FACTOR
Billy Tibbets, Steve Austin and Keith Thunem. What a talented bunch of guys. I remember Steve being the coolest, laid back drummer I've ever met. What a solid player. Billy was the goofy one. He was always making crazy faces and silly voices...joking around. I have to admit; Most of it was over my head, and they knew it.
Keith Thunem, however, was our band leader. He did all the scheduling, and gave me the break. I remember coming over to his house, and sitting in and just playing a couple Judds songs. I don't remember what else we performed. I don't think the guys wanted a 'girl' in the band; but must have been okay with it at some point.
Keith believed in me; and that really meant something. I'll always be grateful to him for giving me that opportunity; and to all of the guys taking care of me to make sure I was always protected when we went out to play.
More From AM 1240 WJON
![Think YOU Can Put on a Music Festival? There’s a Game For That](http://townsquare.media/site/66/files/2024/07/attachment-Untitled-design-25.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![What You Need To Know Before Coming To Pierz Freedom Fest!](http://townsquare.media/site/65/files/2024/07/attachment-GettyImages-2157706745.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![The Evolution Of Chisel: St. Cloud Rox’s Mascot Gets A Fresh New Look](http://townsquare.media/site/65/files/2024/07/attachment-20240705_2107391.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Remember When: The Shy Minnesota Prince ‘s Debut ‘American Bandstand’ [WATCH]](http://townsquare.media/site/65/files/2024/07/attachment-gettyimages-52461878-594x594.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Still Waiting! Where Are The ‘Minnesota Millionaire Raffle’ Winners?](http://townsquare.media/site/65/files/2024/07/attachment-bermix-studio-jUEv09vKykM-unsplash.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Blue Ribbon Romance – Get Married For ‘Free’ At These MN County Fairs This Summer](http://townsquare.media/site/65/files/2024/07/attachment-allef-vinicius-DmUbkltYsKI-unsplash.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![See The Strange Things Left Behind At Lakes Jam](http://townsquare.media/site/65/files/2024/07/attachment-saketh-O_3eN_7w7JQ-unsplash.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Popular 4th of July Celebration Returning to Mystic Lake](http://townsquare.media/site/67/files/2012/06/fireworks_oooooooh.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Prince to be Honored with Star on ‘Hollywood Walk of Fame’](http://townsquare.media/site/67/files/2024/06/attachment-Prince-Vince-Bucci-Stringer-Getty-Images.jpg?w=980&q=75)