Band-members, Musicians:
Johnny Winter - vocals, lead guitars
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.
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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.
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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.
Guest Musicians:
Piano, Solina Strings, Harpsichord, Organ, Horn Arrangement: Edgar Winter
Background Vocals: Johnny Winter, Tasha Thomas, Rick Derringer Carl Hall, Monica Burruss, Jackdaw, Dennis Ferrante
Piano: Kenny Asche
Pedal Steel: Rick Derringer
Rick Derringer (born Ricky Zehringer on 5 August 1947) an American guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer. He first gained fame as a member of The McCoys, a rock group that had a hit with the song "Hang On Sloopy" in 1965. He later became a solo artist and has worked as a producer and collaborator with many well-known musicians.
Derringer was born in Fort Recovery, Ohio and grew up in Union City, Indiana. His family was musical, and he began playing guitar at an early age. In the mid-1960s, he formed The McCoys with his brother Randy and three other musicians. They had several hits, including "Hang On Sloopy," which was a number one hit in the United States in 1965.
After The McCoys disbanded, Derringer formed the band "Johnny Winter And" with blues guitarist Johnny Winter. He also played on several of Winter's albums, including "Johnny Winter And Live" and "Still Alive and Well." In 1973, Derringer released his first solo album, "All American Boy," which featured the hit song "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo."
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Derringer continued to release solo albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including "Spring Fever," "Guitars and Women," and "Face to Face." He also worked as a producer, producing albums for artists such as Cheap Trick, Meat Loaf, and Mason Ruffner.
In the 1990s and 2000s, Derringer continued to perform and record. He also worked as a collaborator with many musicians, including Edgar Winter, Steely Dan, and Kiss. He has been inducted into the Guitar Player Hall of Fame and the Long Island Music Hall of Fame.
Throughout his career, Derringer has been known for his guitar skills and his ability to write catchy rock songs. He has influenced many musicians and continues to be a respected figure in the rock music world.
Rick Derringer's career highlights
1947: Rick Derringer (Born Rick Zehringer) is born on 5 August in Fort Recovery, Ohio, United States.
1963: Derringer forms his first band called The McCoys with his brother Randy. The band gains national attention with their hit single "Hang On Sloopy", which reaches No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
1966: The McCoys release their self-titled debut album, which includes "Hang On Sloopy" as the lead single. The album achieves moderate success.
1969: Derringer leaves The McCoys and embarks on a solo career. He releases his debut solo album titled "All American Boy", which features the popular song "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo". The album establishes Derringer as a notable guitarist and rock artist.
1970: Derringer collaborates with Johnny Winter, joining Winter's band and contributing his guitar skills to Winter's album "Johnny Winter And".
1973: Derringer continues his collaboration with Johnny Winter, appearing on Winter's critically acclaimed album "Still Alive and Well". Derringer's guitar work shines throughout the record.
1973: Derringer releases his second solo album, "Spring Fever".
1974: The Edgar Winter Group releases their successful album "They Only Come Out at Night", which includes the hit singles "Frankenstein" and "Free Ride". Derringer's guitar work is prominently featured throughout the album.
1976: Derringer releases his third solo album, "Derringer", which includes the popular single "Let Me In". The album showcases his blues-rock style and receives positive reviews.
1980: Derringer releases his fourth solo album, "Face to Face", which includes the single "Goodbye Again". The album marks a transition to a more commercial sound.
1983: Derringer forms the band DNA (Derringer and Appice) with drummer Carmine Appice. They release their self-titled debut album, which features a mix of hard rock and pop-oriented tracks.
1987: Derringer releases his fifth solo album, "Back to the Blues", returning to his blues roots. The album receives critical acclaim for his guitar skills and soulful performances.
1990s: Derringer continues to release albums and perform live, showcasing his versatility as a musician and songwriter. He also collaborates with various artists, including Cyndi Lauper and Alice Cooper.
2000s: Derringer remains active in the music industry, touring and recording new material. He also makes occasional guest appearances and collaborates with other musicians.
2010s: Derringer continues to perform live and release albums independently. He also collaborates with Johnny Winter on various projects, including live performances and recordings.
Banjo, Dobro, Lap Steel: Paul Prestopino
Buried Highpart: Dennis Ferrante
Trumpet: Randy Brecker, Bob Millikan, Lou Soloff
Tenor Saxophone: Mick Brecker
Trombone: Dave Taylor
Baritone Saxphone: Lew Del Gatto
