The Strokeland Superband started it all. Strokeland Records was founded by Stephen 'Doc' Kupka, with the help of Andy Ebon, in 1998. Founded as a platform for Doc's prodigious songwriting, Strokeland Records became the launchpad for the Strokeland Superband, a project assembling the best musicians and vocalists from Tower of Power, past and present, and other great musicians with special links to this music. Doc Kupka asked Jeff Tamelier to serve as musical director and co-producer on the first Strokeland Superband project, "Kick It Up a Step!". In addition to Doc and Jeff, the first Strokeland Superband project quickly included .