The Johnny Winter Story - The Early Years

- The Early Years: Johnny Winter's Rise to Fame (1959-1969)

In the heart of Texas, amidst the vibrant tapestry of blues and rock 'n' roll, a young musician named Johnny Winter was crafting his own unique sound. From the tender age of five, when he first picked up a clarinet, to his teenage years spent mastering the guitar, Winter's passion for music burned bright. He navigated the complexities of the music scene, forming bands, collaborating with diverse artists, and honing his skills in smoky nightclubs and bustling recording studios.

Winter's journey was not without its challenges. As an albino with crossed eyes, he faced prejudice and discrimination. Yet, he refused to let these obstacles deter him. With unwavering determination and raw talent, he carved a path for himself in a genre predominantly associated with African American performers. His electrifying guitar solos and soulful vocals captivated audiences, earning him a reputation as one of the most promising blues-rock musicians of his generation.

From his early days with Johnny (Macaroni) and The Jammers to his collaborations with The Crystaliers, The Great Believers, and countless other bands, Winter's musical evolution was a testament to his versatility and relentless pursuit of his craft. He shared the stage with legends like B.B. King and Muddy Waters, leaving an indelible mark on the blues scene in Texas and beyond.

By the late 1960s, Winter's star was on the rise. His performances at the Vulcan Gas Company in Austin caught the attention of Rolling Stone magazine, propelling him into the national spotlight. He headlined at iconic venues like the Fillmore East, sharing the stage with the likes of Mike Bloomfield and Al Kooper. The release of his debut album in 1969 solidified his position as a rising force in the world of blues-rock.

Johnny Winter's story is one of resilience, passion, and extraordinary talent. He defied expectations, shattered stereotypes, and carved a niche for himself in the annals of music history. His music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences today, a testament to his enduring legacy.

Album Front Cover Photo of The Johnny Winter Story - The Early Years 1959-1968
Album Front Cover Photo of The Johnny Winter Story - The Early Years 1959-1968."

Table of Contents

Johnny Winter from 1959 until 1964

It's fascinating to learn about Johnny Winter's early life and how he overcame challenges to become a successful blues-rock musician. Born with crossed eyes and albino traits, Johnny Winter defied these obstacles to establish himself as a prominent figure in the world of blues and rock music.

His father's military background and subsequent involvement in the cotton business shed light on his family's history and movements. Despite being born in Beaumont, Texas, Johnny's family maintained a connection to Leland, Mississippi, where his father was previously involved with Stovall's plantation.

Johnny Winter's musical journey began at a young age, as he initially started playing the clarinet at five years old. He later experimented with the ukulele but eventually transitioned to the guitar under the guidance of his father, who believed the guitar offered better prospects in the music industry. This choice proved pivotal for his future musical career.

As he grew older, Johnny Winter attended Lamar Technical College but found himself drawn to music, frequently traveling to Louisiana to perform in small nightclubs. His dedication to music eventually led him to abandon his studies and fully commit to his musical aspirations.

Johnny Winter's determination, talent, and unique story contributed to his emergence as a prominent blues-rock musician, making him one of the few notable white artists in a genre predominantly associated with African-American performers. His ability to overcome physical challenges and pursue his passion for music showcases his resilience and dedication.

Johnny Winter's early exposure to a diverse range of musical influences, from Negro blues and gospel to country and rock, played a crucial role in shaping his musical style and career. Growing up in Beaumont and Houston, he was surrounded by a vibrant musical environment that helped him develop his skills and refine his sound.

Learning country licks from Luther Nalley, a music store employee, and being influenced by the rock tunes of the late 1950s enriched Winter's musical palette. His exposure to a wide variety of genres laid the foundation for his unique approach to playing the guitar.

At the young age of 11, Johnny Winter and his brother Edgar formed a musical duo reminiscent of the Everly Brothers. They even auditioned in 1959 for Ted Mack's Original Amateur Hour, showcasing their early ambition and talent.

The formation of Johnny (Macaroni) and The Jammers in 1959 marked a significant step forward in Winter's musical journey. Winning the "Johnny Melody" contest and recording "School Day Blues" and "You Know I Love You" on Dart Records provided a taste of success and visibility within the local music scene. This achievement, coupled with a change in band members, helped solidify Johnny Winter's presence in the regional music scene.

Photo of Johnny Winter (aka John Macaroni) and the Jammers band. From Left to Right: Canute Poulson (Bass), Johnny Winter (Guitar, Vocals), Melvin Carpenter (Drums), Richard Griffen (Saxophone), Edgar Winter (Piano)
Photo of Johnny Winter (aka John Macaroni) and the Jammers band. From Left to Right: Canute Poulson (Bass), Johnny Winter (Guitar, Vocals), Melvin Carpenter (Drums), Richard Griffen (Saxophone), Edgar Winter (Piano)

Johnny Winter's involvement with "Burl Boyking" and "The Rockin' Rebels" in 1960 further showcased his versatility as a lead guitarist. His contributions to the song "Let Me Come Your Way" added to his growing reputation as a skilled and dynamic musician.

Throughout this period, Johnny Winter's band lineup underwent changes, reflecting the evolving nature of his musical pursuits. Collaborators like Richard Griffin and David Russell enriched his performances and contributed to the development of his sound.

These early experiences and collaborations laid the groundwork for Johnny Winter's eventual rise to prominence as a blues-rock icon, demonstrating his passion, dedication, and ability to blend various musical influences into a distinctive and powerful musical expression.

Don Mahoney and Jeanna Clare show in 1959

His first band Johnny (Macaroni) and The Jammers 1959 (aka Johnny Winter's Orchestra), together with his brother Edgar . Johnny won the much pubiliczed "Johnny Melody" contest held by radio station KTRM in connection with the movie "Johnny B. Goode". Along with the publicity, Johnny got a chance to make good in the record world. After deciding on two songs, the band cut "School Day Blues" and "You know I love you" on Dart Records. They both rated high on the charts in Beaumont. This really gave the Jammers a boost. Johnny and the Jammers is made of Johnny Winter, Edgar Winter, Willard Chamberlain, Dan Polson, and Melvin Carpenter. issued the single "School Day Blues b/w You Know I Love You" (Pappy Dailey's Dart records at the Bill Hall's Gulf Coast Recording Studios in Beaumont) which scored a local number hit.

Johnny Winter and his brother Edgar appeared on the Don Mahoney and Jeanna Clare show in 1959, when Johnny was 10 years old. They played the songs "Good Morning Little School Girl" and "Johnny B. Goode".

The show was a local children's talent show that aired on KPRC-TV in Houston, Texas. It ran for nearly 30 years, from 1950 to 1977. Johnny and Edgar Winter were two of the many young musicians who got their start on the show.

Johnny Winter's appearance on the Don Mahoney and Jeanna Clare show was a major turning point in his career. It was his first public performance, and it helped him to get noticed by other musicians in the area. In the years that followed, Johnny Winter went on to become one of the most successful blues guitarists of all time.

The song: "Ice Cube"

Recorded "Ice Cube" This one of the very earliest recordings made in 1959. Recorded at Gulf Coast Studios, Beaumont, Texas.

Note: although "Ice Cube" appears on several compilation albums, there is no evidence that Johnny recorded this.

Johnny Winter career during the 1960s

Timeline from 1959 until 1969:

Note: All dates are approximate

  • 1959-1962 - Johnny (Macaroni) and the Jammers aka Johnny Winter's Orchestra. Lead guitar for "The Rockin' Rebels" with Burl Boykin.
  • 1962-1965 - Johnny Winter and his Crystaliers, later renamed in the Coastaleers
  • 1963 - Johnny Winter and The Beaumonts
  • 1962-1965 - It and Them (no known recordings), The Gents, Black Plague
  • 1965-1967 - The Great Believers
  • 1966 - Texas Guitar Slim, Diamond Records: "Broke and Lonely", "Crying in my Heart", Moon-lite Records: Crazy Baby
  • 1966 -The Insight - Cascade Records, "Out of SIght", "Please Come Home for Christmas"
  • 1967 - The Traits
  • 1967? - Neil and the Newcomers, recorded on Hall-Way records 'Night Ride', 'Lost Without You' and 'How do you Live a Lie?'
  • 1968 -Johnny Winter, Uncle John Turner and Tommy Shannon
Johnny Winter and The Gents:

Johnny Winter left Lamar State College and traveled to Chicago to join his friend Dennis Drugan's band, The Gents. However, he returned to Texas by the end of 1963. He recorded the single "Eternally" for the Ken Ritter KRCO label, which was subsequently leased to Atlantic Records. The song achieved significant popularity in the regional music scene, leading Winter to secure opening slots for prominent acts such as "The Everly Brothers" and "Jerry Lee Lewis."

Johnny Winter Recordings on Atlantic Records: “Eternally” (Single) and “You'll be the death of mine” (Single)

New Years Eve 1963/64 - Johnny Winter at the King Edward Hotel in Beaumont, Texas.

Johnny Winter and the Beaumonts aka The Gents are (around 1963) :  

  • Johnny Winter
  • Norman Samaha
  • Robert "Bobby" Reeder
  • Edgar Winter
  • Ikey Sweat (Bass)
Johnny and the Jammers:

It's interesting to learn more about Johnny Winter and The Jammers' musical journey and their contributions to various records. Recording songs like "Creepy" and "Oh My Darling" and achieving a rating of number 7 on KRIC speaks to the band's growing popularity and recognition within their local music scene.

Additionally, the involvement of different band members in backing up Ronnie Bennett on his hits "In This Letter" and "Just Wait and See" highlights the band's versatility and collaborative spirit. Such collaborations and contributions to other artists' work further showcased the band's talent and ability to complement a diverse range of musical styles.

Johnny Winter and The Jammers' active involvement in recording and supporting fellow musicians underscore their commitment to music and their role in shaping the musical landscape of their time. These experiences likely played a significant role in shaping Johnny Winter's musical development and paving the way for his future success as a blues-rock musician

Band members of Johnny & The Jammers changed several times during this period (1960-1964) and Johnny's band included: Richard Griffin played sax with Johnny and Edgar after Willard Chamberlain left the group. David Russell played keyboards when Edgar decided to play Sax

The Crystaliers & It and Them:

In 1964, he embarked on a tour of the southern regions with groups like "The Crystaliers" and "It & Them," eventually making a stop in Houston for a recording session with the Traits under the Universal label in 1967. Between 1965 and 1966, Buzzy Smith was a pianist in Johnny's band, as depicted in the photo gallery featuring Buzzy.

Johnny "CoolDaddy" and The Crystaliers
Johnny "CoolDaddy" and The Crystaliers

    Johnny Winter with The Crystaliers :
  • Johnny Winter - Vocals and Guitars
  • Edgar Winter - Drums
  • Ronnie Becker - Bass
  • Willard Chamberland - Sax
  • Don Duron - Piano
    Johnny Winter with “It and Them” or the “Black Plagues” around 1965, band members are:
  • Johnny Winter
  • Edgar Winter
  • I.P. Sweat
  • Norman Samaha
  • Buzz Smith
Crystaliers become Coastaleers:

Johnny Winter's journey into the world of blues and rock music continued to evolve as he explored different avenues and collaborated with various artists. The renaming of the band Crystaliers into Coastaleers marked another phase in his musical career. Johnny records his first record: "Night Ride" b/w "Geisha Rock" with the Coastaleers.

A pivotal moment in Johnny Winter's musical development was his exposure to the blues through local disc jockey Clarence Garlow's Bon Ton Show on radio station KJET. This exposure to blues music served as a turning point that greatly influenced Winter's musical direction and style.

Johnny Winter's adventurous spirit led him to hitchhike to Louisiana, where he collaborated with local blues and rock musicians. His travels also took him to Chicago, where he immersed himself in the city's musical scene. Despite playing "twist music" on Rush Street, Winter's true passion lay in the grittier and more enduring aspects of Chicago's music culture.

Throughout the 1960s, Johnny Winter continued to be an active participant in the Texan R&B scene, often collaborating with his brother Edgar Winter. His reputation as a skilled guitarist grew, and he became known for his ability to accompany visiting black blues legends both on stage and in the studio.

Notably, Johnny Winter recorded under various fictitious group names, such as "Neal and the Newcomers," "The Crystaliers," "It and Them," and "Black Plague." His versatility and willingness to work with a range of artists and groups further solidified his status as a respected musician within the Texas music community.

Winter's collaborations extended to artists and groups from the Texas area, including Gene Terry and his Kool Cats, Gene Terry and the Down Beats, Rod Bernard, and Junior Cole. These collaborations and recordings added depth to Winter's musical experiences and contributed to his growth as an artist.

During the 1960s, Johnny Winter actively participated in Texan R&B ensembles, often collaborating with his brother, Edgar Winter. He built a robust local reputation as a skilled guitarist, commanding respectable compensation for his performances alongside visiting black blues legends, both on stage and in recording studios. Johnny also contributed to various records using pseudonymous group names such as "Neal and the Newcomers," "The Crystaliers," "It and Them," and "Black Plague." Additionally, he served as a supporting musician for numerous artists and groups in the Texas region, including Gene Terry and his Kool Cats, Gene Terry and the Down Beats, Rod Bernard, Junior Cole, and others. 

Gene Terry and the Down Beats:

Johnny Winter performed regularly with Gene Terry and the Down Beats from Big Oak club, to the Catholic Hall in Iowa, LA.

Terry Gene DeRouen was born on 7 January 1940 in Lafayette, Louisiana. In 1942, his family moved to Port Arthur, Texas. Gene grew up listening to his father and grandfather performing Cajun music. He also attended house and barn dances with his uncle, R. C. DeRouen, a Cajun musician.

His uncle taught him how to play guitar and eventually Gene accompanied him on stage. Gene formed his own group, the Kool Kats in the mid-1950's playing country and western songs. Gradually rhythm and blues began to enter the band's repertoire as Gene became influenced by Little Richard, Elvis Presley and local KTRM deejay J. P. "the Big Bopper" Richardson.

The band changed its name to the Down Beats and began attracting a loyal following. Word spread to Lake Charles, LA gaining the attention of local club owners and a five year contract with Goldband Records. Gene Terry and the Down Beats recorded several singles for Goldband including classic "Cindy Lou."
The first drummer was R.C. DeRouen which was later on replaced by Ray Tommasini. On bass and guitar were the Hall brothers.

I think they were from around Lake Charles, Louisiana. Two saxes, Mike Belile and Doug Dean. Later Mike Aiken from Groves, Texas played drums. Maybe one of the Solis brothers on piano; I'm not sure about that. Mike Aiken, the drummer went on to play with Johnny Courville(Johnny Preston, of "Running Bear" fame).

Huey P. Meaux remembers:

Huey P. Meaux remembers: my magic never worked for two talented young boys from Beaumont, Johnny and Edgar Winter, whom he recorded under the names The Great Believers (Amos Boynton - drums, Dave Russell - Bass, Edgar Winter - Keyboards, Johnny Winter - Guitar/Vocals) and Texas Guitar Slim. "We'd put them on a local television show called Jive at Five, and their records would stop selling like you turn a light switch off," Meaux said. "People would freak out, being as they was albinos."

Huey P. Meaux, whose full name is Huey Pierce Meaux, was a music producer and record label owner from the United States. He was a significant figure in the music industry, particularly in the Gulf Coast region of Texas and Louisiana. Meaux was involved in producing a wide range of music genres, including R&B, rock and roll, country, and Cajun music.

He is known for his work with various artists and bands, and he played a role in shaping the careers of several notable musicians. Meaux founded several record labels, including Tear Drop Records and Crazy Cajun Enterprises. He also produced hit records for artists like Freddy Fender, Doug Sahm, and Barbara Lynn.

Despite his contributions to the music industry, Huey P. Meaux's legacy is also tainted by legal troubles. He faced criminal charges related to his actions and was eventually convicted on charges including drug trafficking and sexual exploitation of minors. His involvement in these criminal activities overshadowed his earlier achievements in the music world.

B.B. King's Night at The Raven: Johnny Winter's Electrifying Blues Jam in Beaumont, 1962:

B.B. King - The Raven (Club), Beaumont, Texas
One nite, late '62, he went to see B.B. King, who was playing in the Beaumont club called "The Raven". Johnny, Edgar, Ikey and Robert Reeder were the only white guys among 1500 fans of the great bluesman, anxious to play with him. Bobby drank more and more and and he asked the king if Johnny could play with them., and he replied cautiously "Can I see a Union Card?" Johnny whiped it out and B.B. King most surprised said: "Well, I don't know , I don't know...do you know our songs?", Johnny replied: "Man, I know ALL your songs!" And suddenly three hundred black people started yelling "BB Let him play with you". So the King agreed and Johnny Winter made the audience flip out.

29 May 1962 - Johnny Winter Orchestra performs at the Beaumont Country Club for the Saint Anne's 1962 Graduation Class

Johnny Winter during 1964

Recordings in 1964:

Recordings: "Gone for Bad" (Single). The single "Gone for Bad" is one of the spotlight winners of the week, in Billnoard 15 May 1965. Recorded 1965 Gulf Coast Studios, Beaumont Texas. Issued at the time on 45 by MGM.

25 July 1964 - Galveston News Tribune:

Youth work projects of the Texas City Noon Optimist Club will benefit from proceeds of the "Mid - Summer Spectacular" show of area recording Aug. 3 at Robinson Municipal Stadium in Texas City.

SHOW TIME will be at 7 p.m., but doors will open at 6 p.m. Admission is $1 and seats will not be reserved a spokesman for the sponsoring Noon Optimist club said.

Heading the show bands will be the "Raiders of Freeport" who recorded "Stick Shift", "Motivation" and their new release "Raising Cane"- Appearing with the Raiders will be vocalist Bobby Reed, singing his new record "Girl of my Dreams" and Lonnie Robers performing his country western song, "Rugged but Right".

Also appearing will be the originals with their latest recording "Scattershot" and the Moore Twins singing their release of "Rosemary"

JOHNNY WINTER of Beaumont will sing his new record "Eternity" and La Marquee will be represented by the Surfs. and the Crosswords.

JOHNNY WINTER of Beaumont will sing his new record Eternity and La Marquee will be represented by the Surfs. and the Crosswords.
JOHNNY WINTER of Beaumont will sing his new record "Eternity" and La Marquee will be represented by the Surfs. and the Crosswords.



Appearing from Texas City will be "D and the Domino's", the Detours, the Highliners and the Jesters, The Tempests, Galveston group which has the record "Girl in Pink Chiffon" also will appear on the program

Jerry DeCre and disc jockeys from Station KILE will emcees for the program

31 July 1964 - The Galveston News:

A small advertisement of "The Texas Optimist Club" and KILE RADIO Presents MID-SUMMER SPECTACULAR
Robinson Stadium. Texas City, Mom. 3 Aug 1964 Donation 1$ Per Person , The Raiders , The Originals D & The Dominoes , The Highlinger , The Jesters ,- The Surfs ,The Crestwoods ,* The Tempests
Big Band from San Antonio with Johnny Winter, Bobby Reed, Mike Byron, Freddie Amburn, Johnny Lee and many others Waller Crane , Johnny Winter , Bobby Reed , The Moore Twins , Mike Byron , Freddie Amburn , Lonnie Roberta , Garcia Bynum , Hunter Lowry , Mc Jerry Deore , DJ Dan Lanahin , DJ Jack Frost , DJ Bill Atkins (KTSASanAntonio) , Johnny Lee.

3 August 1964 - Johnny Winter performs at Robinson Municipal Stadium in Texas City.:
29/30 December 1964 - The Galveston News:

An advertisement for the New Years Eve DANCE at Galveston Ball Room with Johnny Winter and Band from New Orleans