Johnny Winter’s 1981: Collaborations, Blues Festivals, and the Birth of Mad Albino Records

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Johnny and Sonny Terry recorded the album *Whoopin'*, but when they faced a lack of interest from existing labels to release the project, Johnny took matters into his own hands. He established his own record label, *Mad Albino*, to ensure the album's release.

Uncle John Turner reunited with Johnny Winter for a short, highly anticipated mini-tour.

The late Muddy Waters was one of the finest and most influential blues performers of all time -- just ask The Rolling Stones, who took their name from one of his songs. On video of this concert, Muddy was captured in fine form onstage at the Chicago Blues Festival, with friend and collaborator Johnny Winter sitting in on guitar; songs include Mannish Boy and I'm A King Bee.

Johnny Winter at the Old Waldorf/San Francisco, Uncle John Turner remembers: Catfish Hodge on guitar, Bob Hodge's brother Dallas Hodge and the bass player's name is Campbell (Catfish Hodge & Chicken Legs=; I think his first name was Chris. they are from Detroit. The place was San Francisco and it was 1981. The club was in the top of a downtown building and it was Bill Graham's place. We were in the middle of a little mini-tour. I think the bassist was in the Bob Seger band at the time. A bootleg recording of this concert was released at "The Lost Show"

Here's a summary of the typical setlist Johnny Winter performed during 1981:

Core Songs Frequently Played:

1. Hideaway – This instrumental classic by Freddie King appears in nearly every setlist.

2. Johnny B. Goode – A staple in Johnny Winter's performances, often featured near the middle or end of his sets.

3. Rock & Roll Hoochie Koo – Another regular in his live shows, showcasing his rock and blues prowess.

4. Highway 61 Revisited – A Bob Dylan cover that Johnny Winter often used to energize the crowd.

5. Rollin' and Tumblin' – Traditional blues standard that Johnny Winter often brought into his live performances.

6. It's All Over Now – A frequent song in his live sets, reflecting his blend of rock and blues.

Other Popular Songs:

- The Crawl – Played in several concerts, demonstrating his love for classic blues.

- No Money Down – Featured in at least two shows.

- Jumpin' Jack Flash – The Rolling Stones classic appears multiple times.

- Messing with the Kid – A blues favorite, appearing in a few of his 1981 setlists.

Notable Collaborations:

- With Sonny Terry (Pier NYC, 19 August 1981): Unique collaborations like "I Got the Blues" and "Roll Me Baby" show how Johnny Winter interacted with guest artists, enriching the blues experience.

Summary

1. Opening with "Hideaway" – Johnny Winter typically opened his sets with this instrumental, setting a bluesy, energetic tone.

2. Mid-set Blues Jams – Songs like "The Crawl," "Messing with the Kid," and "Mississippi Blues" show his deep connection to traditional blues.

3. Rock Favorites – Classics like "Johnny B. Goode" and "Rock & Roll Hoochie Koo" brought a more rock-oriented energy.

4. Endings with Instrumentals and Collaborations – The setlist frequently ended with collaborative or solo instrumental pieces, often featuring high-energy jams or blues standards.

This pattern highlights Johnny Winter’s ability to balance traditional blues, high-octane rock, and crowd interaction throughout his 1981 performances.