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In 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.
Synopsis: First published in 1975 or 1976, this article chronicles the rise and impact of Sonobeat Records, a small but pioneering record label based in Austin, Texas. During the mid-1960s, the Austin music scene began to take off, with KAZZ-FM, a progressive radio station, playing a central role. Managed by Bill Josey and his son, Bill II (known as DJ Rim Kelly), KAZZ-FM broadcast live performances and supported rising local talent, including legendary acts like Townes Van Zandt, Janis Joplin, and the 13th Floor Elevators.
The Joseys decided to create Sonobeat Records, becoming one of the first labels to focus on local Austin musicians. They began by recording live performances, using their broadcasting experience to capture the vibrant energy of the local scene. Their first release, featuring the band Babycakes, was a modest start, but Sonobeat soon became known for its experimental and diverse catalogue, featuring psychedelic rock, country, blues, and jazz.
Over the years, Sonobeat helped launch the careers of several artists, most notably Johnny Winter, whose Sonobeat recordings sparked national attention and led to a contract with Columbia Records. Winter’s blend of hard-driving blues and rock epitomized the unique sound of the Austin music scene. Other notable releases included work by Plymouth Rock, Mariani, and Wali and the Afro-Caravan, showcasing Sonobeat’s eclectic musical range.
Despite its small scale, Sonobeat had a lasting influence on the Austin music scene, helping to shape the city’s reputation as a hub for live music and creative expression. After Bill Josey’s death in 1976, Sonobeat gradually faded from the scene, but its legacy endures in the classic records and groundbreaking artists it helped bring to the world.
Read The Full Article: Pioneers of Austin’s Music Revolution
By PETE OPPEL Johnny Winter proved Wednesday night that laser beams, strobe lights, movies and other visual effects are not needed to put on a really fine rock concert. What is required is excellent musicianship and outstanding material. Winter provided both at a concert before a near capacity crowd at MacFarlin Auditorium. There were no artificial pyrotechites, but plenty of musical ones. Winter and his group laid out the best basic rock roll music heard in this city this year. Winter played only nine numbers during his 90-minute set and that in eluded two encores. But while the songs were long, they were filled with enough energy, enough excitement and enough variation to keep them from ever getting tedious.
HE STARTED his show off with the Bobby Womack classic "It's All Over Now ' and from there went into "Rock 'n' Roll Hootchie Coo." He relied quite a hit on other rock standards, going back to the very roots of the genre, updating such 50's beauties as Larry Williams' "Bonie Maronie" and Chuck Berry's "Johnny B. Goode." His slide interlude during Dylan's "Highway 61" was excellent and Winter is the only man who can coax a hand into playing "Jumping Jack Flash" with the same energy and quality as The Stones. But the highlight of the evening was the one slow blues number performed during the set, "Sweet Chicago." listening to Winter play his soul out during that number made me wonder why it has become impossible to capture the essential Winter on record, film or television screen. The concert stage is his medium and he exploits it to the fullest.
Back in January I said it would take one great concert to top the Allman Brothers year-opening show. Johnny Winter accomplished that feat Wednesday night.
Brass Ring Productions Presents: Johnny & Edgar Winter "Together" with Special Guests "R.E.O. Speedwagon", Heat, Nils Lofgren at Electric Rodeo, Lamar Park , Grand Rapids, Michigan.
San Diego Johnny Winter's band opens for Blue Oyster Cult and headliner Z.Z.Top. The huge crowd's enthusiastic response to Johnny's set was incredible. Blue Oyster Cult followed...but the crowd, still riding high off Winter's set, did not react with the same enthusiasm - only perking up during BOC's then current hit song "Don't Fear The Reaper". Headliner Z.Z.Top had an elaborate theatrical show with all kinds of animals onstage as props, but was just worlds away musically from the powerful set heard earlier from Winter's band. Johnny owned the day. Floyd Radford was on 2nd guitar in Winter's band.
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 1970
In 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 1971
In 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 1972
In 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 1973
In 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 1974
In 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 1975
In 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 1976
In 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 1977
In 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 1978
In 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