Stephen Allen Bowden affectionately known as Tazharha (a combination of his 3 sons' names) entered this earth plane on April 8, 1950, in Boston, MA. He was the son of Johnny and Doris Bowden. His father was a Master Carpenter and his mom was an educator. He spent a good portion of his life living on Norfolk Street in Roxbury and attended Boston Public Schools. Later he enrolled in Berklee College of Music to pursue his love of music.

He married Harolyn Burton on August 24, 1974 in Valley Cottage, NY. From this union they had 3 sons, Rhatura, Zhanu, and Tavon. Tazharha was a devoted father, imparting knowledge, instilling values, and nurturing their creative talents.

Upon completion of his studies at Berklee Tazharha joined the band New World Generation led by composer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist Lekan Parson. Tazhara played keyboard, composed songs, and co-produced some of the tracks. The band performed at various local venues and toured outside the country. In 1982, New World Generation released an album, a collection of soul and R&B. Tazharha created a music studio in the attic, giving vocal lessons, and recording sessions to artists. Tazhara knew the power of music. It unites, has the power to alter one's mood, change perceptions and inspire change. Music was a platform for him to address social issues and advocate for change. The Atlanta child murders of 1979-1981 deeply touched his heart and inspired him to write a song honoring the victims. Music was his passion and he was a self-taught musical genius... He spent hours playing the piano daily and composing music. He later took up acoustic, electric and bass guitar.

Besides music, Tazharha enjoyed fishing. His greatest joy was to take the grandchildren fishing. He didn't cook, but he liked to barbecue and was known for his signature barbeque sauce. Inheriting some of his father's woodworking skills he created boxes, some with carved leather designs on top. He also dabbled in photography.

On July 29, 2026, Tazharha chose to "go home" into the loving arms of the ancestors. He is preceded by his parents Johnie and Doris, his brother John, and his sisters Janaya, Laverne, Kaidi, and Darlene. He is survived by Harolyn, his 3 sons Rhatura, Zhanu, Tavon. His grandchildren Davonte, Solaruh, Tavon Jr., Gianna, Khairi, Kyler and great grandson Davonte Jr. He is also survived by his sister Janice Garret, his daughter in-laws Jessica Sico, Colby Bowden and by Marissa, Dekysha, and a host of family and friends.