House of Blues, Hollywood, CA
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As the world’s biggest Johnny Winter fan, I’ve gone through these reviews with a mix of reverence, realism, and deep appreciation for the blues legend. These firsthand accounts of Johnny's performances from the late 90s capture a period of his career marked by physical decline but also serve as a reminder of his undeniable spirit and enduring musicianship.
In the first review, Pat Harrington paints a sobering picture of Johnny’s health during a show at the House of Blues in 1998. Harrington, a seasoned musician himself, recalls Johnny as a shadow of his former self, looking frail and struggling with rhythm. However, beneath the harsh critique, there's a recognition of the difficulty of Johnny’s situation—a man who has given so much to music but is visibly ailing, both physically and musically. Despite the disappointment, there's a glimmer of affection and respect for what Johnny once was, which lingers in the final note of regret.
Steve Williamson, in his review of a live-streamed Johnny show, offers a more forgiving and heartfelt account. While acknowledging Johnny’s reduced energy, Williamson is thrilled just to witness the man who has provided him with "thousands of hours of music pleasure." Though he admits that Johnny’s playing isn’t perfect and the performance is short, the excitement of seeing him live again, even via a screen, outweighs any technical shortcomings. This review echoes the devotion that true fans continue to feel for Johnny, regardless of his condition.
The third review brings us back to the House of Blues for another 1998 performance. The writer, initially cautious due to negative reviews, finds solace in the fact that Johnny still commands a stage presence, even if his speed and physicality have slowed. They speculate that Johnny may be going blind, explaining some of his faltering performance. But even at half-speed, Johnny’s taste and feel for the blues still set him apart from most guitarists, reaffirming his place in the pantheon of blues greats. There are notable highlights in the show—especially his slide work and voice, which still resonate with the audience. The reviewer is quick to point out that despite the decline, seeing Johnny live is still a worthwhile experience, and his essence remains intact.
In summary, these reviews reflect a period in Johnny Winter’s career where his physical frailty began to impact his performances, but they also underscore the immense respect and loyalty that fans have for him. His decline is noted with sadness, but no one can deny that his legacy as a blues icon remains untouched. Even as his playing faltered and his health waned, Johnny Winter’s spirit, talent, and connection with his audience shone through. These accounts remind us that legends may age, but their impact and contribution to music are everlasting.
