Blues music has continued to thrive with young musicians “taking up the torch,” if you will, and adding their own experiences and styles to the music. One of the great guitarists that helped launch a new generation of blues guitarists was Jonny Lang. Lang has appeared with some of the best blues musicians in the industry including Buddy Guy and B.B. King, plus he has created his own music and fans all over the world. One of the things that impresses me most about Jonny Lang is his versatility, without losing his unique sound. My friend and keyboardist, Quinton Hufferd, just saw the Jonny Lang Band perform at the Thunder Bay Blues Festival in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, and had a lot of great things to say about the band. He also felt that Lang was able to mix blues, rock, pop, funk, soul, and gospel influences into his own “Jonny Lang blend.” This ability to adapt his own music style and write killer songs has launched Jonny Lang into the spotlight for the last fifteen years. I threw together a few videos from performances throughout his career that I think you’ll enjoy.
Jonny Lang has been a regular attraction at the Crossroads Guitar Festival in Illinois for the last several years. And frankly, I think he deserves to be there. Check him out on stage with Ron Wood and Buddy Guy at the festival playing the song, “Five Long Years,” at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqvYq8LhREU.
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In this next video, we’ll rewind a few years to see a performance featuring Lang on the hit music show, Austin City Limits. Lang plays his song, “Give Me Up Again,” at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uihnK4C5cgY.
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Lastly, this video features the current Jonny Lang Band and the song, “A Quitter Never Wins.” The band features a multitude of great musicians including Akil Thompson on rhythm guitar. I suggest you keep an eye out for him because he is a killer guitarist in his own right. Check out the band at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfU2hCnaD-w&feature=related.
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Jonny Lang is still touring today and it sounds like there may be another album on the horizon for the Jonny Lang Band. I hope you enjoyed the videos as much as I did.
Thanks,
Griff
7 replies to "Young Blues Guitar Sensation, Jonny Lang"
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he also did a fantastic job with cyndi lauper on the memphis blues dvd and cd
saw JL 1st time in Houston 2000,some folks are born to it,to the delight of the rest of us.carry on JL & thanks Griff
Jonny Lang is one of my favorites! I haven’t been able to see him live, but I will at the next opportunity.
Saw JL first time in New Haven CT in the late 90’s. WOW! Started playing guitar as a result. 68 yrs old now & still lovin it & his work. Thx for posting Griff.
Finally (finally) got to see Jonny this spring on the Experience Henrix Tour. I’ve owned all his albums since the first one came out. Can’t wait for a new one; it’s been too long! Finally found his TAB book online for “Wander This World”. Trying to learn “Right Back” now. Any lessons you could work out for us of his would be appreciatted, Griff.
Thanks for the post. Have liked JL for a long time – 3 good samples you picked.