Despite his advancement in age, and physical issues that prevent him from playing as vibrantly as he had in decades prior, needing to sit in a chair during shows, Johnny Winter still is a commanding presence. Whether you’re in the grip of his guitar skills, or his legend, there is no denying that Johnny Winter possesses a power that few guitarists can lay claim to. Any listen to any of his legendary Columbia albums, or any of his other label involvements, will have you in an awestruck position.
Winter’s last album, Roots (2011), collected eleven blues classics from inspirations that include T-Bone Walker (“T-Bone Shuffle”), Elmore James (“Done Somebody Wrong”), Chuck Berry (“Maybelline”), Jimmy Reed (“Bright Lights, Big City”), and Robert Johnson (“Dust My Broom”), to name a few. To up the ante, Roots showcases a grand collection of guests that includes the like of Vince Gill, Susan Tedeschi, Warren Haynes, Edgar Winter, and Derek Trucks, also to just mention a few.
On September 2, Megaforce Records will release the next in the series of collected covers. The new album is called Step Back, which will, once again, feature Winter-recorded inspiring songs by his personal gallery of blues heroes. And once again, a wild collection of friends will join Johnny Winter in presenting these classic blues tracks. Among such guests will be Eric Clapton, Billy Gibbons, Ben Harper, Joe Perry, Brian Setzer, Dr John (Mac Rebennack), and Leslie West.
Step Back will be released on CD, DD, and vinyl LP.
Who’s excited now?!
Thanks for the news of this new Johnny Winter release. I agree with your statement that Johnny doesn’t play as vibrantly as he did years ago but he is still an incredible player. I have seen Johnny about hlaf a dozen times over the last few years, the last being about six months ago. And this last time not only did Johnny stand for almost the entire show he was rather animated and the music flat out rocked! So if Johnny ever comes to your area, because he still constantly tours, don’t be put off by age or health concerns, go see him! You’ll be in for a great night of amazing guitar playing.
Jeff, I totally agree. Although it’s been a few years, I’m hoping to be able to get to a show in the near future.