Johnny Winter's "Captured Live" on Blue Sky Records immortalized the blues legend's electrifying live performances on vinyl. The LP served as a testament to Winter's unmatched talent, showcasing his explosive guitar skills and soulful voice. This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.
In 1976, Johnny Winter unleashed a mesmerizing live experience onto vinyl with his album "Captured Live". Released on Blue Sky Records, this LP captured the raw energy, searing guitar solos, and electrifying stage presence that made Winter a true blues legend. From the moment the needle hit the vinyl, fans were transported into the heart of Winter's incendiary live performances, leaving an indelible mark on blues enthusiasts worldwide.
The Blues Powerhouse:
Johnny Winter's reputation as a blues powerhouse had been steadily growing since his early career in the 1960s. With his shock of white hair, scorching guitar skills, and soulful voice, Winter became a prominent figure in the blues-rock revival of the '70s. "Captured Live" epitomizes the essence of Johnny Winter's musical brilliance, demonstrating why he was revered as one of the greatest blues guitarists of his time.
Tracklist:
The album's tracklist featured a selection of Winter's most iconic songs and blues classics, each infused with his signature style and impeccable technique. Among the standout tracks were "Boney Moronie", "Rollin' and Tumblin'", "Rock and Roll Medley", and "It's All Over Now". Each performance showcased Winter's virtuosity, as he effortlessly blended traditional blues with rock elements, making every track a true crowd-pleaser.
The Live Experience:
"Captured Live" was more than just a compilation of songs; it was an immersive experience. Listening to the LP, one could feel the energy of the crowd, the anticipation before each guitar solo, and the thunderous applause after every song. Winter's stage banter and interactions with the audience added a personal touch, creating an intimate connection between performer and listener. The album managed to capture the essence of a Johnny Winter concert, allowing fans to relive those unforgettable live moments at their leisure.
Blue Sky Records:
The album's release on Blue Sky Records further solidified Winter's partnership with the label, which had been instrumental in nurturing his career. Blue Sky Records was co-founded by Winter's manager, Steve Paul, and it became a platform for some of Winter's most successful albums. "Captured Live" was no exception, garnering critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying Johnny Winter's status as a blues icon.
Blues Rock
Blue Sky – SKY 69230
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1976 European Release
Johnny Winter - Producer
Sound Engineer - Shelly Yakus
Shelly Yakus, born on 19 March 1946, in South Orange, New Jersey, is a renowned American sound engineer and music producer. From a young age, Shelly showed a strong passion for music and sound, which led him to pursue a career in the music industry. He honed his skills in sound engineering and production, becoming proficient in the technical aspects of recording, mixing, and mastering.
Rise to Prominence:
Yakus' breakthrough in the music industry came during the late 1960s when he started working as an assistant engineer at The Record Plant, a prestigious recording studio in New York City. There, he had the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with some of the finest musicians and engineers of the era, refining his craft and building a reputation for his exceptional skills.
Collaborations with Johnny Winter:
Shelly Yakus' talent and reputation as a sound engineer continued to grow, leading to collaborations with renowned artists. One of his notable partnerships was with the legendary blues guitarist and singer, Johnny Winter. In the early 1970s, Yakus worked on several albums for Winter, contributing his technical expertise to shape Winter's distinctive sound.
Collaborations with Roy Buchanan:
Apart from his work with Johnny Winter, Shelly Yakus also collaborated with another influential guitarist and blues musician, Roy Buchanan. With his knack for capturing the essence of an artist's performance, Yakus brought out the best in Buchanan's soulful and emotive playing.
Later Career and Legacy:
Shelly Yakus' successful career as a sound engineer extended well beyond the 1970s. He continued to work with various artists, contributing to numerous acclaimed albums across different genres. His dedication to achieving sonic perfection earned him praise from musicians and peers alike.
Over the years, Yakus' name became synonymous with excellence in sound engineering, and his influence on the music industry continues to be felt. His work remains an integral part of the legacy of iconic artists like Johnny Winter and Roy Buchanan, preserving their music for generations to come.
Shelly Yakus' contributions to the world of music have left an indelible mark, and his passion for capturing the true essence of artists' performances has solidified his position as one of the most celebrated sound engineers in the history of recorded music.
Assistant Engineer - David Thoerner
Mixed at the Record Plant - N.Y.
Mastered at the Master Cutting Room, N.Y., by Greg Calbi
Special thanks to everyone at the Record Plant, the people at Wally Heider's, Showco, Teddy Slatus, Rick Dobbis, Marcia Franklin, Mike Valenti, Brian Valenti, George Crombez, Eddie Faulkner, Marty Brownstein, Paul Prestopino
Captured Live was recorded Live At: Swing Auditorium San Diego Sports Arena Oakland Coliseum By Wally Heider Studios, L.A.
Package design: Teresa Alfieri & John Berg
Front cover photograph: Mick Rock
Mick Rock, born on 24 November 1948, is a renowned British photographer widely known for his iconic images of rock and roll legends. Dubbed "The Man Who Shot the Seventies", Rock's distinctive style and uncanny ability to capture the essence of the music and artists he photographed have solidified his position as one of the most influential rock photographers of all time.
Early Life:
Michael David Rock was born in London, England. From an early age, he displayed a deep interest in the arts and music. He attended Cambridge Arts College, where he further honed his artistic skills and developed a passion for photography. During this time, he experimented with various techniques and styles that would eventually define his unique visual language.
Rise to Fame:
In 1969, Mick Rock's career took a serendipitous turn when he met a young and relatively unknown musician named David Bowie (then known as David Jones). The meeting marked the beginning of a transformative partnership and close friendship between the two artists. Rock's camera lens would go on to capture some of the most iconic moments of Bowie's Ziggy Stardust era, helping to cement Bowie's status as a legendary rock star.
Rock's ability to capture the raw and flamboyant energy of the emerging glam rock movement brought him to the forefront of the music scene. Throughout the 1970s, he became the go-to photographer for rock and roll royalty, working with iconic acts such as Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, Queen, The Ramones, and many others.
Photographic Style:
Mick Rock's style was characterized by a unique mix of intimate, candid shots, and staged, imaginative portraits. He had a keen eye for detail, and his use of lighting and composition brought a surreal and theatrical quality to his photographs. His pictures often managed to capture the vulnerability and charisma of his subjects, revealing the human side behind the rock star façade.
The visual language he developed became synonymous with the glam rock era and significantly influenced the perception of rock and roll culture during that time. His images exuded an aura of decadence and hedonism, reflecting the spirit of the era's music and lifestyle.
Later Career:
As the music scene evolved, so did Mick Rock's photography. In the 1980s and beyond, he continued to collaborate with musicians from various genres, documenting the rise of new wave, punk, and post-punk acts. His versatility as a photographer allowed him to adapt to changing musical landscapes, capturing the essence of each unique era.
In addition to his photography work, Mick Rock has also directed music videos for prominent artists like David Bowie, including the iconic video for "Life on Mars?" He has published several acclaimed photography books, showcasing his vast collection of images from his decades-long career.
Legacy and Recognition:
Mick Rock's contributions to the world of rock and roll photography have earned him widespread recognition and numerous accolades. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide, and he continues to be celebrated as one of the pioneers of his craft. Rock's images have become an integral part of music history, immortalizing the spirit of some of the most legendary and influential musicians of all time.
Mick Rock a selection of album covers for which he has done the photography: Queen , David Bowie , Syd Barrett, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop and The Stooges, Geordie, The Sex Pistols, The Ramones, Joan Jett, Talking Heads , Roxy Music , Crossfade, Thin Lizzy, Mötley Crüe , and Blondie. Often referred to as "The Man Who Shot the Seventies", most of the memorable images of David Bowie as Ziggy Stardust were shot by Mick Rock, in his capacity as Bowie's official photographer.
Heavy Metal bands he has photographed include: Attila, Def Leppard , Doro , Fates Warning, Hallows Eve, Piece Dogs, Riot V, Thin Lizzy, Voivod , Yngwie J. Malmsteen.
Back cover photograph: Jim Marshall
Jim Marshall (1936-2010) was an American photographer known for his iconic images that captured the essence of the music and cultural scene of the 1960s and 1970s. His work became synonymous with rock 'n' roll, and he is regarded as one of the greatest music photographers of all time.
Born on 3 February 1936, in Chicago, Illinois, James Joseph Marshall developed an early passion for photography. He received his first camera, a Kodak Brownie, at the age of nine and began experimenting with capturing the world around him. As a teenager, Marshall worked as an assistant to a local portrait photographer, honing his skills and developing his own unique style.
In the early 1960s, Marshall moved to San Francisco, where he became immersed in the burgeoning counterculture and music scene. He began photographing jazz musicians, but it was his love for rock 'n' roll that would define his career. Marshall's ability to blend seamlessly into the music scene allowed him to capture intimate and candid moments of some of the greatest musicians of all time.
One of Marshall's most famous photographs is the image of Jimi Hendrix burning his guitar on stage at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967. This image encapsulated the rebellious spirit of the era and became an enduring symbol of the power and energy of rock music. Marshall's other notable subjects included Janis Joplin, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, and Miles Davis, among many others.
Marshall's photographs went beyond the stage and studio; he captured the essence of the artists themselves, documenting their lives on the road and offstage. His images showcased the raw emotions, vulnerability, and humanity of these legendary figures, making them relatable to audiences around the world.
Throughout his career, Marshall was known for his relentless work ethic and dedication to his craft. He was often described as a maverick, unafraid to push boundaries and capture the truth of the moment. His photographs reflected the cultural and political climate of the time, and his ability to connect with his subjects on a personal level allowed him to capture moments of rare authenticity.
Despite his success, Marshall remained humble and often preferred the company of musicians over the glitz and glamour of the industry. He valued his relationships with the artists he photographed, and many of them considered him a friend as well as a trusted documentarian.
In addition to his music photography, Marshall also ventured into other genres, including street photography and portraiture. His work has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums worldwide and has been featured on album covers, book covers, and in publications such as Rolling Stone, Life, and Vanity Fair.
Jim Marshall passed away on 24 March 2010, leaving behind a rich legacy of images that continue to inspire and resonate with music lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. His photographs capture a transformative period in history and remain a testament to the power of visual storytelling. Today, his work continues to be celebrated and recognized as an indelible part of the cultural fabric of the 20th century.
Inside photographs: Jeffrey Mayer,
Rainbow Photography, and Sam Emerson
Johnny Winter - Guitar, Vocals
Floyd Radford - rhythm guitar
Floyd Radford, from a young age, he displayed a keen interest in music and developed a fascination with the guitar. As a self-taught guitarist, Radford spent countless hours honing his skills, drawing inspiration from blues, rock, and various other genres that shaped his unique musical style.
Joining Tin House and Edgar Winter's White Trash:
In his early career, Radford's talent caught the attention of fellow musicians, leading him to become a member of the band Tin House. Tin House was a rock group formed in the early 1970s, known for their powerful and heavy sound. Radford's guitar work contributed significantly to the band's distinct musical identity.
After his time with Tin House, Radford had the opportunity to join another well-known band, Edgar Winter's White Trash. As a member of White Trash, he continued to gain valuable experience and exposure, solidifying his reputation as a skilled guitarist. During this period he participated with Edgar Winter on the album "Edgar Winter's White Thrash" as well as with his "own" band "Tin House".
Joining Johnny Winter's Band:
One of the most significant milestones in Floyd Radford's career came when he joined Johnny Winter's Band around 1976, where he replaced Rick Derringer on guitar and joined the Johnny Winter And band and recorded "Captured Live".
As the rhythm guitarist of Johnny Winter's Band, Radford's playing style perfectly complemented Johnny Winter's lead guitar work. His ability to seamlessly blend rhythm and lead guitar lines provided a solid foundation for Johnny Winter's virtuoso performances. This collaboration allowed Johnny Winter to explore his musical ideas more freely, resulting in dynamic and captivating live shows.
Notable Tours and Success:
During his time with Johnny Winter's Band, Floyd Radford accompanied the group on two significant tours. The first was the fall 1974 tour of Europe, marking Johnny Winter's return to European stages after a hiatus. The tour was met with resounding success, with sold-out shows in major cities across Europe, including London, Paris, Munich, Frankfurt, Copenhagen, and Stockholm.
Following the European tour, the band embarked on a Fall/Winter 1974-75 tour of the United States. The twelve-week tour took them to numerous cities, solidifying their popularity and further showcasing Radford's pivotal role in the band's live performances.
Legacy and Impact:
Floyd Radford's time with Johnny Winter's Band left an enduring impact on the music world. His talent and contribution as a guitarist remain admired and celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike. Radford's ability to seamlessly blend rhythm and lead guitar lines served as an inspiration for future generations of guitarists, influencing their approach to musical collaboration.
Randy Jo Hobbs - bass
Randy Jo Hobbs (Full-name: Randy Joël Hobbs) was an accomplished bass player known for his exceptional talent, innovative style, and dynamic stage presence. Born on 22 March 1948, in Winchester, Indiana, Hobbs developed a deep passion for music at an early age. His innate musical abilities and dedication to his craft would ultimately lead him to become one of the most respected bass players of his time.
Hobbs' breakthrough came in 1969 when he joined the band The McCoys, known for their hit single "Hang On Sloopy". This opportunity allowed him to showcase his bass-playing prowess on a larger stage and gain recognition within the industry. Shortly thereafter, he caught the attention of rock legend Johnny and Edgar Winter.
Richard Hughes – Drums
Richard Hughes was an American drummer who played with Johnny Winter's band from 1973 to 1976. He was born in Trenton, New Jersey, on 31 March 1950. Hughes began playing drums at a young age, and by his early twenties, he was playing in local bands in the New Jersey area.
In 1972, Hughes was playing in a Johnny Winter cover band when he was spotted by Winter himself. Winter was impressed by Hughes's playing, and he invited him to join his band. Hughes accepted the invitation, and he began touring with Winter in 1973.
Hughes played on five albums with Winter, including Still Alive and Well, Saints & Sinners, John Dawson Winter III, Captured Live, and Together. He was known for his powerful drumming style, which helped to drive Winter's blues-rock sound.
In 1976, Hughes left Winter's band to pursue other musical interests. He continued to play drums in various bands, and he also worked as a session musician. In 1981, he rejoined Winter's band for a brief tour.
Hughes struggled with mental health issues throughout his life. In 1985, he took his own life at the age of 35.
Hughes's drumming was a key part of Johnny Winter's sound. His powerful playing helped to drive Winter's blues-rock sound, and he was a vital member of Winter's band during his most successful period. Hughes's legacy as a drummer is still felt today, and he is remembered as one of the most talented drummers of his generation.
In addition to his work with Winter, Hughes also played with a number of other notable musicians, including Rick Derringer, Bob Margolin, and Charlie Musselwhite. He was a respected figure in the blues-rock world, and his death was a major loss to the music community.
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
Johnny Winter , was an American musician, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer. Best known for his high-energy blues-rock albums and live performances in the late 1960s and 1970s, Winter also produced three Grammy Award-winning albums for blues singer and guitarist Muddy Waters. After his time with Waters, Winter recorded several Grammy-nominated blues albums. In 1988, he was inducted into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame and in 2003, he was ranked 63rd in Rolling Stone magazine's list of the '100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time'. He was also known for his collaborations with other musicians, including Muddy Waters and Edgar Winter. Winter's career spanned several decades and he released numerous albums throughout his lifetime. He died on 16 July 2014.