After enjoying eight years of heady success, for the Arena Rock Pomp Rock troupe STYX there came a point, after the release of the conceptual 'Kilroy Was Here' album in 1983, when it was felt that the band needed a break from each other. Thus, with STYX on hold TOMMY SHAW, like most of his bandmates, set to work on a solo album. The guitarist released his first Mike Stone produced effort, 'Girls With Guns', in 1984. Joining him was former WINGS drummer Steve Holley, bassist Brian Stanley and keyboard player Peter Wood.

The second. 'What If', followed a year later before Shaw had a parting of the ways with A&M Records and signed to Atlantic for his third album, 'Ambition', released in 1986. 'Ambition', produced by ex-CHARLIE guitarist Terry Thomas and recorded in London utilized the services of bassist Peter Vetesse and drummer Tony Beard, although Shaw put a brand new touring band together of guitarist Mark Muller, bassist Norman Dahlor, drummer Michael Crizzlin and BILLY SQUIER keysman Alan St. Jon.

After recording with DAMN YANKEES and SHAW/BLADES, Tommy finally concocted a brand new solo album for 1998 release entitled '7 Deadly Zens' with Jack Blades guesting. Other names putting in an appearance included JOHN SYKES bassist Marco Mendoza, DAMN YANKEES colleagues TED NUGENT on guitar, drummer Michael Cartellone and REO SPEEDWAGON vocalist Kevin Cronin. Even actress Angie Dickinson adds a narration. The album featured further tracks on CD-ROM.

In 2004 Shaw would donate vocal tracks to a version of the KISS classic 'Love Gun' for a tribute album 'Spin The Bottle' and also lent vocals to a version of PINK FLOYD's 'Money' included on the MICHAEL SCHENKER 'Heavy Hitters' covers album. In October 2006 Shaw vocalised on a cover version of the JOURNEY classic 'Open Arms' featured on the Cleopatra Records homage collection '80s Metal Tribute To Journey'.