"Nothing But The Blues" marks a triumphant return to Johnny Winter's musical roots, showcasing his mastery of THE BLUES. This exceptional album has earned significant recognition, reaching an impressive position of #146 on the USA Billboard Charts. This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.
In the world of blues music, certain artists leave an indelible mark on the genre, shaping its very essence for generations to come. One such luminary is the legendary Johnny Winter, whose album "Nothin' but the Blues" stands as a testament to his unparalleled talent and devotion to the blues. Released in 1977, this 12" vinyl LP album captures the essence of pure blues, with Winter accompanied by the esteemed band of another blues icon, Muddy Waters. Hailing from the heart of the United States, this timeless masterpiece encapsulates the raw power and emotion that defines the blues.
Johnny Winter: A Blues Maestro
Johnny Winter, born in Beaumont, Texas, in 1944, was a virtuoso guitarist and a powerful vocalist. From a young age, Winter was drawn to the blues, idolizing the likes of Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, and B.B. King. With his unique albinism appearance and distinctive sound, he quickly made a name for himself in the music industry. Winter's fast-paced and fiery guitar playing, coupled with his soulful vocals, set him apart from his peers and earned him widespread acclaim.
By the time "Nothin' but the Blues" was released, Johnny Winter had already achieved significant success, both commercially and critically. The album came at a time when rock music was dominating the airwaves, but Winter remained steadfast in his dedication to the blues, and this album is a testament to that devotion.
The Essence of "Nothin' but the Blues"
"Nothin' but the Blues" is a captivating exploration of traditional blues themes and showcases Winter's ability to breathe new life into classic blues standards. The album features a collection of covers, including songs by blues legends such as Willie Dixon, Elmore James, and Muddy Waters himself. Winter's interpretations are nothing short of brilliant, infusing each track with his own distinctive style while maintaining the essence of the original compositions.
One of the highlights of the album is the opening track, "Tired of Tryin'", a soulful blues number that sets the tone for the entire record. Winter's searing guitar solos and emotive vocals immediately draw listeners into his world of heartfelt blues.
Another standout track is "TV Mama", a boogie-woogie infused song that showcases Winter's dazzling guitar skills. His fretwork on this track is a masterclass in blues guitar playing, demonstrating his technical prowess and innate understanding of the genre.
However, the most remarkable aspect of "Nothin' but the Blues" is the collaboration between Johnny Winter and Muddy Waters' band. The chemistry between Winter and these seasoned blues musicians is palpable, creating a synergy that elevates the entire album to a higher level. The band's tight rhythm section, complemented by Winter's fiery guitar licks, creates a sonic landscape that is both electrifying and deeply rooted in the blues tradition.
The Legacy and Impact
"Nothin' but the Blues" not only solidified Johnny Winter's status as a blues maestro but also served as a reminder of the timeless allure of the blues genre itself. The album's authenticity and raw emotional power struck a chord with fans and critics alike, earning it a place among the greatest blues records of all time.
Furthermore, the collaboration with Muddy Waters' band brought an added dimension to the album, bridging the gap between the old and new generations of blues musicians. Winter's ability to seamlessly blend traditional blues with contemporary elements helped introduce the genre to a broader audience, ensuring its continued relevance in a rapidly changing musical landscape.
Blues
Blue Sky - Sky 82141
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1977 Made in USA
Johnny Winter - Producer
Steve Paul - Organic Advisor
Steve Paul was an influential figure in the music industry, best known for his role as the manager of the rock and blues musicians Johnny Winter and Edgar Winter. Learn about Steve Paul
Dave Still - Sound Engineer
Grant Barlow - Assistent Sound Engineer
Mastered at Sterling Sound, N.Y.C. by Greg Calbi
Recorded and Mixed at The Schoolhouse
Johnny Winter – vocals, electric guitar, metal body acoustic guitar, slide guitar, bass guitar, drums
Muddy Waters – vocals
James Cotton – harmonica
Pinetop Perkins – piano
Bob Margolin – electric guitar
Charles Calmese – electric bass
Willie "Big Eyes" Smith – drums
All songs (except Walkin' thru the Park) written by Johnny Winter
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 ).
An album that stands as a declaration of faith for the timelessness of the blues: in form, it is as traditional as one could imagine, but in content and feeling, it is as raw, spontaneous, and electrifying as only a unique albino guitarist rooted in this tradition can play.
Since the Progressive Blues Experiment and his CBS debut, Johnny Winter hasn't played twelve-bar blues so uninhibitedly. And when compared with the late classics of the genre recorded in the 1950s and early 1960s, Nothing but the Blues holds its own. Alongside Muddy Waters' Hard Again, which was also produced by Winter and created in parallel, this LP is one of the purest blues masterpieces of the decade.
(And one can't help but ask: do you have to be an albino to play the blues so effortlessly?)
The accompanying musicians are legends: Muddy Waters (who only sings here), James Cotton on harmonica, and "Pine Top" Perkins on piano. What Keith Richards so admired in the old Chess recordings is realized again here: it's not just individual skill and virtuosic soloing that matters, but the sound and the ensemble. The feeling, the collective understanding.
This record could just as well carry the title of the famous Stones bootleg: Liver Than You'll Ever Be! That's exactly how it was recorded. A true relief in the face of all the effects-driven bestsellers where packaging—and only the packaging—is meant to sell content that's bad enough on its own...
F.Sch.
Original German Article:
An album that is essentially a declaration of faith in the timelessness of the blues. In form, it’s as traditional as one could imagine, yet in content and feeling, it’s so impulsive, spontaneous, and eroticized that only a singular phenomenon like this albino guitarist can play it. Since the "Progressive Blues Experiment" and his CBS debut, Johnny Winter has not created such a seamless twelve-bar blues masterpiece, as if it had been recorded in the 1950s or early 1960s.
When compared to classics of the genre, "Nothin' But the Blues" doesn’t fare badly. Together with the similarly Winter-produced album "Hard Again" by Muddy Waters, which was released around the same time, this LP is one of the milestone works of this decade in terms of the blues. (And the inevitable question arises: does one have to be an albino to play the blues with such a fiery passion?)
The accompanying musicians are legends: Muddy Waters (he only sings here), James Cotton on harmonica, and "Pine Top Perkins" on piano. Wasn’t Keith Richards, who admired Chess recordings so much, the one who realized that it’s not just the individual skill and technical virtuosity that count, but also the overall sound and feeling that make the blues truly understandable?
The LP title should actually read: LIVER THAN YOU’LL EVER BE! That’s exactly how it sounds. The tracks were recorded live, though in the studio, but with the kind of packaging that makes you feel as if you’re listening in a concert hall.
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Interpretation: masterfully played traditional blues—raw and unadulterated.
Technical quality: somewhat restrained live sound, but excellently captured in every sense.
Johnny Winter Storms Back
‘Nothing But the Blues’ Supported by Blistering Electric Tour
By Jim Farber
The word comeback is tossed around too often in the music business. But in the case of Johnny Winter’s latest album and tour, the term fits. Even in his earliest performances, Winter was heralded as the great white hope of the blues. And during the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, he lived up to that expectation. But somewhere around the mid ‘70s, things started to fall apart. By the time of his first Columbia album, Winter was becoming known more for his indulgences than for his music. A period of serious drug addiction followed. It wasn’t until the late ‘70s that Winter was able to pull himself together and get back on track.
With the release of his album Nothing But the Blues , Winter has come full circle, once again focusing on the music that made him great. Nothing But the Blues is a tribute to some of the greatest blues artists and is supported by a blistering tour of electric blues that highlights Winter’s searing guitar work.
On stage, Winter is nothing short of amazing. His playing is as fiery as ever, with a renewed sense of passion and energy that was often missing during the darker days of his career. His current band consists of a rhythm section that backs Winter’s every move with precision and power. Together, they create a sound that is both tight and raw, capturing the essence of the blues while adding a modern edge.
Winter’s set list is a mix of classic blues standards and his own material. Songs like “Mississippi Blues” and “Walking Through the Park” showcase Winter’s deep understanding of the genre, while his own compositions like “Blinded by Love” reveal a more personal side to his music. Each song is delivered with an intensity that proves Winter is back and better than ever.
What sets Winter apart from so many of his peers is his ability to not only play the blues but to live them. His music is a reflection of his life, full of the highs and lows that come with being a musician on the edge. In that sense, Nothing But the Blues is more than just an album – it’s a statement of survival.
With his new album and tour, Johnny Winter is once again proving why he is one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time. His ability to overcome personal demons and still create music of such depth and power is a testament to his talent and determination. For fans of the blues, Winter’s comeback is not only welcome – it’s necessary.
Imperial LP-12431, 1969, Made in US
"The Progressive Blues Experiment" by Johnny Winter is a legendary 12" vinyl LP album that showcases the extraordinary talent and unique style of the American blues guitarist and singer. Recorded live at the Vulcan Gas Company, an iconic music venue in Austin, Texas,
The Progressive Blues Experiment 12" Vinyl LP
CBS Stereo 63619 (1969) , 1969 , Made in USA
On the self-titled debut album Johnny Winter played the blues pure and simple,. Whether it was the stinging raucous Delta music as played acoustically on "Dallas", or his savage electric attack, on "Mean Mistreater", "Be Careful With a Fool", or on Good Mornin' Little Schoolgirl'
JOHNNY WINTER aka Black Album 12" Vinyl LP
CBS , 1969 , Brazil
"Johnny Winter's 'Second Winter' is a classic 12" vinyl album released in 1969 on the CBS Record label. The influential blues-rock musician's second studio album showcases his virtuosic guitar skills and soulful vocals. Featuring a mix of original compositions and covers, the record captivates listeners with its raw energy and timeless blues-rock sound, solidifying Johnny Winter's status as a music icon."
Second Winter 12" Vinyl LP
CBS – 64117, CBS – S 64117 , 1970 , USA
The Johnny Winter AND album is a masterclass in raw energy and virtuosic guitar playing, with Winter's and Derringer's fiery solos and soulful vocals captivating listeners. It's a timeless testament to the power and passion of blues rock music,
JOHNNY WINTER AND 12" Vinyl LPe
CBS S 64289 , 1971 , Made in Holland
"And Live" by "Johnny Winter And" is a gatefold 12" LP vinyl album that showcases the legendary blues musician's electrifying live performances. Released during his peak in the 1970s, this album captures Winter's virtuosic guitar skills and soulful vocals, delivering a high-energy experience for blues enthusiasts. With a diverse tracklist and excellent sound quality, this vinyl release remains a must-have for collectors and fans of authentic live blues music.
Live 12" Vinyl LP
CBS 65484 , 1973 , Made in USA
Johnny Winter's 1973 comeback album, "Still Alive and Well," showcases the blues-rock legend's electrifying guitar work and soulful vocals. With defiant tracks like the title song and an impassioned rendition of The Rolling Stones' "Let It Bleed," this LP reached #22 on the US Billboard Charts, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of rock music.
Still Alive and Well 12" Vinyl LP
CBS S 65842 , 1974 , Made in USA
"Saints and Sinners" is a blues-rock masterpiece released in 1974 on a 12" vinyl LP. Led by the incomparable Johnny Winter, the album features scorching guitar riffs, emotive vocals, and a soulful fusion of rock and blues. Produced by Rick Derringer, it boasts a talented lineup, including Edgar Winter, Randy Brecker, and more, creating an enduring classic that captivates listeners with its raw energy and timeless appeal.
Saints and Sinners 12" Vinyl LP
PZ33292 , 1974 , Made in USA
"John Dawson Winter III" remains a shining gem in the discography of Johnny Winter. This 12" vinyl LP album from 1974 continues to captivate audiences with its timeless blues-rock sound, and it serves as a reminder of the immense talent of Johnny Winter and his band-members, Randy Jo Hobbs and Richard Hughes. Whether you're a dedicated fan or a newcomer to Johnny Winter's music, this album is a must-listen for anyone seeking to experience the magic of true blues and rock artistry.
John Dawson Winter III 12" Vinyl LP
Blue Sky – SKY 69230 , 1976 , Europe
"Johnny Winter's 'Captured Live' 12" LP delivers an authentic blues experience. Recorded during his peak in 1976, the album showcases his raw talent with scintillating guitar work and soulful vocals. The dynamic tracklist features crowd favorites like 'Boney Moronie' and 'Sweet Papa John'.
Captured Live 12" Vinyl LP
Blue Sky PZ 33944 / AL 33944 , 1976 , Made in USA
The promotional copy of Johnny Winter's "Captured Live" 12" vinyl LP album featuring Floyd Radford on rhythm guitar is a rare and coveted treasure for vinyl collectors and blues enthusiasts. This unique edition offers a glimpse into the blues legend's live performances during his prime in the 1970s.
Captured Live Promo Copy 12" Vinyl LP
Blue Sky LP 81338 , 1976 , Made in USA
Experience the electrifying energy of legendary musicians Johnny Winter and Edgar Winter with this thrilling 12" vinyl LP album, "Together". Explore this web-page featuring several captivating photos of the Winter brothers in their element, delivering unforgettable performances on stage.
Together (with Edgar Winter) 12" Vinyl LP
Blue Sky - Sky 82141 , 1977 , Made in USA
Johnny Winter's "Nothin' but the Blues" is an album that encapsulates the very essence of the blues. With his unparalleled guitar skills and soulful vocals, Winter breathes new life into classic blues compositions while paying homage to the genre's legends.
Nothin' but the Blues 12" Vinyl LP
CBS SKY 82963 , 1978 , Made in USA
"Johnny Winter's 'White Hot And Blue' 12" vinyl LP is a blues-rock gem featuring his soulful vocals and mesmerizing guitar skills. With a powerhouse lineup, including Edgar Winter's multi-instrumental brilliance, Pat Ramsey's haunting harmonica, and Tom Brock's captivating mandolin
White Hot and Blue 12" Vinyl LP
Blue Sky AL 36343 / JZ 36343 , 1980 , Made in USA
"Raisin' Cain" is the title of a 1980 album by American blues musician Johnny Winter. The album features a mix of original songs and covers of classic blues songs, such as "Sweet Little Angel" and "It's My Own Fault". The album received positive reviews from critics and was well received by Winter's fans. It features a mix of rock, blues and country music.
Raisin Cain 12" Vinyl LP
ATLAS Records LA25-5012 , 1984 , Japan
Johnny Winter's "Guitar Slinger" on 12" vinyl LP is not just an album; it is a masterpiece that encapsulates the brilliance of one of the greatest guitarists in the history of blues rock. The Japanese release of this iconic album further solidified its status as a musical treasure, appreciated by fans across the world.
Guitar Slinger 12" Vinyl LP
Alligator Records SNTF 948/Sonet , 1985 , Made in USA
Johnny Winter's "Serious Business" remains a timeless blues masterpiece that encapsulates the raw essence of the genre. With searing guitar work, powerful vocals, and an unwavering dedication to the blues, Winter and his talented band created an album that continues to resonate with blues enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Serious Business 12" Vinyl LP
Sonet Records SNTF 965 , 1986 , Made in USA
"Johnny Winter's 'Third Degree' (1986) captivates with blues-rock brilliance. The iconic guitarist's studio album exudes raw energy and soulful vocals, showcasing his virtuosity. Featuring electrifying tracks like 'Mojo Boogie' and 'Tin Pan Alley,' it remains a timeless testament to Winter's legendary talent and continues to resonate with music enthusiasts worldwide.
Third Degree CD
- , 1988 , USA
"Winter of '88" is a blues-rock gem by Johnny Winter, released in 1988. With electrifying guitar work and soulful vocals, Winter returns to his musical roots, delivering an authentic and powerful experience. This album showcases Winter's enduring talent and influence
Winter of '88 CD
- , 1991 , USA
"Let Me In," Johnny Winter's 1991 album, marks a dynamic shift from MCA to Pointblank Records. With scorching guitar riffs and soulful vocals, Winter delivers an electrifying blues-rock masterpiece. Supported by skilled musicians like Billy Branch's harmonica and Dr. John's piano, the album blends emotional depth and musical diversity, cementing Winter's status as a blues legend.
Let Me In CD
POINTBLANK #86512 , 1992 , USA
"Johnny Winter's 1992 album 'Hey Where's Your Brother?' delivers electrifying blues rock, showcasing his signature guitar prowess and soulful vocals. With a mix of original tracks and inspired covers, the album captures Winter's dynamic energy and musical finesse, a testament to his influential legacy in the blues genre.
Hey Where's Your Brother? CD
Cema Virgin 45527 , 1997 , USA
Johnny Winter's 'Live in NYC 1997' album pulses with electrifying blues and rock fusion. With searing guitar solos and soulful vocals, Winter's raw energy ignites the stage, capturing a mesmerizing night at the Bottom Line. From haunting renditions of classics to the immersive chemistry
Live in NYC 1997
Virgin Records , 2004 , Made in USA
"I'm a Bluesman" is not just an album; it's a celebration of the blues, a tribute to tradition, and a testament to the enduring power of music. Johnny Winter and Mike Welch's collaboration on this record showcases their profound understanding of the blues genre and their ability to keep its flame burning brightly. With its rich blend of original compositions and classic covers, the album is a timeless masterpiece that stands as a true reflection of the bluesman spirit.
I'm a Bluesman CD
Megaforce Records , 2011 , Made in USA
Johnny Winter's 2011 album 'ROOTS' takes listeners on a captivating musical journey, showcasing his mastery of blues, rock, and roots genres. With soulful vocals and electrifying guitar solos, Winter pays homage to his musical influences while adding his own unique flair. This CD release is a timeless collection of tracks that capture the essence of his legendary career and demonstrate his unwavering passion for authentic, heartfelt music".
Roots CD
Megaforce Records – 0 20286 21697 1 , 2014 , USA
"Step Back" is the final album by blues guitarist and singer Johnny Winter. It features performances by a number of guest musicians, including Eric Clapton, Dr. John, Billy Gibbons from ZZ Top, Joe Perry from Aerosmith, Leslie West from Mountain, and Brian Setzer from the Stray Cats. It was released by Megaforce Records on 2 September 2014.
Step Back (Red Vinyl) 12" Vinyl LP
Janus Records – JLS 3008 , 1976 , Made in USA
"About Blues" is a compilation album of tracks recorded with Johnny Winter on Guitar. These recordings were made before JW became famous and when he worked as a free-lance guitarist and studio guitarist. The music on this album is representative for the popular music during the early 1960s.
About Blues 12" Vinyl LP
CBS 22020 , 1976 , Made in Holland
"Johnny Winter And" and "Johnny Winter And Live" is a 2LP vinyl album set that contains the first two albums "The Johnny Winter And" band released. The first album is a studio recording while the second album is a live recording. Both records were originally released as two separate albums.
"AND & AND Live" 12" Vinyl LP
CBS/Sony SOPM 91 , 1974 , Made in Japan
The "Best of Johnny Winter (Japan)" is a 12" vinyl LP that compiles the finest works of the renowned blues musician. This release showcases Winter's exceptional guitar skills and powerful vocals, highlighting his contributions to the genre. With carefully selected tracks, this album offers a comprehensive overview of Winter's career,
Best of Johnny Winter ( Japan ) 12" Vinyl LP
Blue Sky SKY 32206 / CBS 63619 / CS 9826 / LC 3231 , unknown , Holland
The First Album (Blue Sky Records) is a re-issue of the first album Johnny Winter released on the CBS Record label and was also known as the Black Album. The year of release of this re-issue on Blue Sky is unknown and must after 1973 (The year Blue Sky records was formed).
The First Album (Blue Sky Records) 12" Vinyl LP
Sunset Records SLS 50264 / Liberty LBS 83 240 1 / LP 12 431 , 1969??? , Made in Germany
Johnny Winter's "Progressive Blues Experiment" is a 12" LP vinyl album released on Sunset Liberty Records with the catalog numbers Sunset Records SLS 50264, Liberty LBS 83 240 1, and LP 12 431. This album showcases Winter's innovative approach to blues music, blending traditional elements with progressive influences.
Progressive Blues Experiment (Sunset Liberty) 12" Vinyl LP
