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In July 1970, amidst a series of high-profile concerts, Johnny Winter found himself caught in a whirlwind of expectations and challenges. While anticipation mounted for his performance at the Toronto Peace Festival, slated for early July, unforeseen circumstances forced its cancellation. Undeterred, Winter embarked on a tour through Florida, captivating audiences with his electrifying guitar skills. However, the shadow of the ill-fated Altamont festival lingered, and concerns over crowd control and security measures loomed large. Despite these obstacles, Winter's performances remained a beacon of raw blues talent, captivating those who yearned for an escape into the transcendent power of music.
Synopsis: The Toronto Peace Festival, slated for July 3-5, will be held near London, Ontario, amidst a sprawling, scenic landscape perfect for a large gathering. The festival boasts a diverse lineup featuring major acts like Chicago, Johnny Winter, and B.B. King, along with symposiums led by prominent figures in various fields. A dedicated Peace Network of radio stations will broadcast festival-related news and information nationwide. Free macrobiotic food will be available, and comprehensive medical facilities will be on-site. Ticket sales will end on June 3, with organizers strongly discouraging anyone without a ticket from making the journey. "Caravans for Peace" are being organized to facilitate travel to the festival, offering support and information to participants. While some concerns remain in light of past festival tragedies, organizers are confident in their preparations and the festival's positive message of peace, hoping to build on the success of Woodstock and create a memorable and inspiring event.
Synopsis: I remember the Second Atlanta International Pop Festival in 1970 like it was yesterday. Despite my initial disappointment about Johnny Winter's new band, I was completely blown away by their performance. Their set was electrifying, and when Johnny later joined the Allman Brothers on stage for an epic jam session, it was the highlight of the entire festival. His energy and guitar skills were incredible, and it felt like he was the driving force behind the whole experience. Even with a massive crowd, I'll never forget the way he made everyone feel connected through his music.
You don't come across albino blues singers every day but one of those days will be Tuesday. July 14. at the St.Petersburg National Guard Armory.
Texas bluesman Johnny Winter will headline a two-group show with the Amboy Dukes at the Armory.
A Margarie Sexton production, the Winter show will begin at 8 p.m. and fans are advised to bring their own blanket for the strictly-concert event.
Ticket prices are $4 advance and $5 at the gate. Tickets are on sale at area Sears stores.
The 26-year-old Winter began his rock career a couple of years ago in Texas and has evolved a unique style based on the blues guitar variations of Jimi Hendrix.
Winter is classified hard rock blues and will afford fans a real counterpoint to the Amboy Dukes. who have had a succession of medium rock hits.
The same two groups will appear the following night, Wednesday July 15, at Robarts Sports Arena in Sarasota.
Johnny Winter and company last appeared at Curtis Hixon Hall in Tampa at a Christmas concert with the Allmon Brothers and Grand Funk Railroad
Two really heavy concerts in one week may be more than Suncoast rock fans can stand. But if you can take all the groovy sounds, it should be a real music trip. The Chambers Brothers will be first. The five-man California group will appear Friday night at Curtis Hixon in Tampa, along with Great Jones and Latifundia. The Chambers Brothers began their career as gospel singers in 1961, but they switched to popular and blues in '64 and their fame soon spread nation wide. The brothers — Willie, George, Lester and Joe — added New York drummer Brian Keenan and came up with the super hit sound that's skyrocketed them on the charts.
Second on the concert scene in appearance will be Johnny Winter, the 28 year old white-haired singer who is given the credit for bringing blues back into the popular record charts. Winter and the rock group, Amboy Dukes, are scheduled to appear at St. Petersburg's National Guard Armory next Tuesday night. Tickets for the Chambers Brothers show are 13.50, $4 and $4.50 in advance at Sears stores and Belk's in Britton Plaza. Sears also has $4 advance tickets for Johnny Winter's concert. Otherwise, it's $15 at the door.
This event at the "St Petersburg National Guard Armory" is reviewed in St Petersburg 16 July 1970
By CAROLYN NOLTE
Too many people were uptight, paranoid about dope and what might happen. There were two worlds at the St. Petersburg National Guard Armory Tuesday night for the Johnny Winter concert. One was up, the other down. One came to dig the hard-hitting sound of blues on a smooth, smooth guitar. The other, too many police for the small crowd, was there watching, creating an atmosphere of tension. NOTHING WAS terribly wrong, but it wasn't really right. But then, Johnny Winter didn't walk onto the stage, he gilded on. He's the perfect spook; an albino floating around in tempo with his music. He darts back to the electronic boxes spitting out amplification, shutting out everything but his own guitar, then spins back front to the microphone.
If you shut your eyes, you found ourself caught in a spiral throbbing sound. Around and around, your whole body responded. Johnny Winter is good. Very good. But when you came crashing back into reality, it was bad. Very bad. The armory isn't airconditioned and no one was allowed to go outside for air and then inside again. THE CROWD SAT on the floor, absorbing the music. The police, in uniform and plainclothes patroled the place. it was hard to relax.
Tampa's Curtis Mixon Auditorium has taken the initiative to book top, rock groups for this area. St. Petersburg should make the effort to catch up, but only if the promoters give their audiences more consideration. It seems unnecessary to create so much tension.
Photos of the concert, published on 16th July 1970,
In 1970, Johnny Winter solidified his reputation as a premier blues-rock guitarist. He embarked on his first European tour, performing at iconic venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and Montreux’s Golden Rose Festival. Despite critical debates regarding his role in the blues, Winter's ability to blend traditional blues with rock captivated audiences. That year also marked a pivotal moment in his career as he restructured his band, setting the stage for his evolving sound and continued success.
Read About Johnny Winter in 1970In 1971, Johnny Winter experienced both musical success and personal challenges. He completed a successful European tour, delivering electrifying performances and collaborating with icons like Willie Dixon. However, his intense touring schedule, combined with substance abuse, culminated in a breakdown by year-end. This marked a pivotal moment, forcing Winter to confront his struggles and embark on a journey toward recovery. Despite these challenges, 1971 showcased his blues-rock prowess and deepened his connection with international audiences.
Read About Johnny Winter in 1971In 1972, Johnny Winter made a remarkable comeback after a nine-month recovery from heroin addiction. Moving to Woodstock, New York, he resumed performing, joining his brother Edgar Winter’s band, White Trash. This year marked his renewed energy and determin
Read About Johnny Winter in 1972In 1973, Johnny Winter made a powerful comeback with the release of *Still Alive and Well*, after overcoming heroin addiction. The album reached #22 on the US charts, and Winter embarked on an extensive tour with Foghat. This year also marked a shift in his guitar preferences, as he adopted the Gibson Firebird. Winter’s electrifying performances, particularly at venues like Madison Square Garden, solidified his reputation as a blues-rock powerhouse.
Read About Johnny Winter in 1973In 1974, Johnny Winter, the renowned blues-rock guitarist, embarked on extensive North American and European tours, releasing two albums, Saints & Sinners and John Dawson Winter III. Both albums featured his signature gritty sound, while his live performances, marked by energetic guitar work, solidified his status as a top blues-rock performer. Notably, Winter made a triumphant return to Europe after a four-year absence, performing to sold-out crowds in major cities. His relentless touring schedule and powerful stage presence cemented his international reputation.
Read About Johnny Winter in 1974In 1975, Johnny Winter, the renowned blues-rock guitarist, experienced a resurgence in his career. Having battled personal struggles, including drug addiction, Winter returned to the stage with renewed energy. His live performances showcased a mix of classic blues and rock hits, alongside material from his album John Dawson Winter III. Despite his personal critiques of his performances, audiences were enthusiastic, and Winter continued to evolve as an artist. The year marked a pivotal moment in his career, further cementing his legacy in the rock and blues scenes.
Read About Johnny Winter in 1975In 1976, Johnny Winter embarked on a tour alongside his brother Edgar Winter, guitarist Floyd Radford, and bassist Dan Hartman. This tour included several performances across Canada. Notably, during the months of July and August, Johnny and Edgar Winter frequently shared the stage to promote their collaborative album "Together", marking a significant highlight of the tour.
Read About Johnny Winter in 1976In 1977, Johnny Winter toured with blues legends Muddy Waters and James Cotton, showcasing a powerful collaboration that revitalized classic blues. Winter produced Muddy Waters' *Hard Again*, which won a Grammy and led to a dynamic tour. The performances featured Cotton's intense harmonica playing and Waters' iconic vocals, with Winter adding his signature gritty guitar work. This tour, a standout in Winter's career, reaffirmed his role in preserving and elevating traditional blues alongside these legendary musicians.
Read About Johnny Winter in 1977In 1978, Johnny Winter's career saw significant milestones. He embarked on a European tour, produced Muddy Waters' Grammy-winning album I'm Ready, and welcomed Jon Paris into his band. Winter also delivered a standout radio performance for British Biscuit and appeared with Muddy Waters on a BBC television special, further solidifying his legacy in blues and rock. This pivotal year highlighted his versatile talents as a musician and producer.
Read About Johnny Winter in 1978In 1979, Johnny Winter's career was marked by significant performances and collaborations, including his appearance at the Rockpalast Festival in Germany, where his blend of blues and rock captivated audiences. During this period, he worked closely with blues icon Muddy Waters, further cementing his legacy in the genre. Despite his personal battles with drug addiction, Winter's influence remained strong, and he continued touring extensively, with a detailed timeline of his tour dates and setlists from key performances like Rockpalast.
Read About Johnny Winter in 1979