Johnny Winter - Progressive Blues - France Sunset SLS 50301 12" Vinyl LP Album

The Johnny Winter album titled "Progressive Blues" is a rare French release of his renowned work, "Progressive Blues Experiment". However, it's important to note that this particular release has been mis-titled as "Progressive Blues". Despite the mislabeling, this 12" vinyl LP showcases Winter's exceptional blues talent, featuring his distinctive guitar playing and soulful vocals.

 

JOHNNY WINTER - Progressive Blues France Sunset SLS 50301 12" Vinyl LP Album front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

Album Description:

Johnny Winter, an American blues guitarist and singer, left an indelible mark on the music world with his electrifying performances and unique style. The album "Progressive Blues", originally known as "Progressive Blues Experiment", captures Winter at his finest, showcasing his virtuosic guitar skills and passionate vocals. Released in France under the Sunset label with the catalog number SLS 50301, this 12" vinyl LP remains a sought-after collector's item.

"Progressive Blues" is a testament to Johnny Winter's ability to blend traditional blues with elements of rock and roll, creating a sound that pushed the boundaries of the genre. Each track on the album is a showcase of his exceptional talent, highlighting his technical prowess on the guitar and his soulful, emotive singing.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Rollin' and Tumblin'", a classic blues standard. Winter's interpretation of the song is electrifying, with his slide guitar work taking center stage. His gritty vocals add an authentic and raw quality to the track, capturing the essence of the blues.

Another highlight of the album is Winter's cover of B.B. King's "It's My Own Fault". This rendition demonstrates Winter's deep understanding and respect for the blues tradition while infusing his own unique style. His guitar solos are a masterclass in blues improvisation, showcasing his ability to blend technical skill with emotional depth.

The album also features original compositions by Winter, such as "Bad Luck and Trouble" and "Help Me". These songs further exemplify his songwriting prowess, as he seamlessly weaves together bluesy riffs, catchy melodies, and heartfelt lyrics.

While "Progressive Blues" may have been mislabeled, the music contained within this French release remains a testament to Johnny Winter's incredible talent and influence in the blues genre. His innovative approach to the blues, fusing it with elements of rock and roll, set him apart from his contemporaries and cemented his status as a true musical icon.

For collectors and fans of Johnny Winter, "Progressive Blues" on the France Sunset label is a rare gem that captures the essence of his groundbreaking blues music. Its mislabeled title only adds to its allure, making it a sought-after item for enthusiasts of both vinyl records and Winter's exceptional talent.

Music Genre:

  Progressive Blues Music

Collector's info:

  Rare French release of Progressive Blues Experiment mistitled as Progressive Blues

Album Production:

  Produced by Bill Josey and Rim Kelley. Photography Burton Wilson. Recorded at the Vulcan Gas Company, Austin Texas

Record Label Information:

  Sunset SLS 50301

Media Format:

  12" Vinyl LP Gramophone

Year & Country:

  1969 Made in France
Band Members and Musicians on: Johnny Winter Progressive Blues
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Johnny Winter
  • John "Red" Turner
  • Tommy Shannon

    Tommy Shannon, born Thomas Lafitte Smedley on 18 April 1946, is an American bass guitarist renowned for his influential work with the legendary blues guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan. His powerful and innovative bass lines have left an indelible mark on the blues and rock music scene, making him one of the most respected and influential bass players of his generation.

    Early Life and Musical Journey:

    more...

    Tommy Shannon was born in Tucson, Arizona, and grew up in a musically inclined family. He discovered his passion for music at a young age and initially played guitar before switching to bass. Shannon's musical journey began to take shape in the 1960s when he moved to Dallas, Texas, a hotspot for emerging blues and rock scenes.

    Collaboration with Johnny Winter:

    In the late 1960s, Tommy Shannon's career took a significant turn when he joined forces with the renowned blues guitarist Johnny Winter. Shannon's powerful bass lines perfectly complemented Winter's electrifying guitar playing and distinctive voice. The partnership between Johnny Winter and Tommy Shannon proved to be a match made in blues heaven.

    During his time with Johnny Winter, Shannon contributed to several albums, including the critically acclaimed "Johnny Winter Self-titled", and "The Progressive Blues Experiment" which was released in 1970. The album's success catapulted both Winter and Shannon into the limelight, earning them a dedicated fan base and recognition among their peers.
    After several successful years with Johnny Winter, Tommy Shannon's musical journey took another pivotal turn when he teamed up with the young guitar prodigy, Stevie Ray Vaughan.

    Collaboration with Stevie Ray Vaughan:

    In the early 1980s, Tommy Shannon's career took a significant turn when he joined forces with the young guitar virtuoso Stevie Ray Vaughan. In 1981, Shannon became a member of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble, the band that would redefine modern blues and bring the genre to new heights.

    Shannon's rhythmic and steady bass playing provided a solid foundation for Stevie Ray Vaughan's blistering guitar solos, contributing to the band's unique sound. Their chemistry was undeniable, and together they achieved massive success with albums like "Texas Flood" (1983), "Couldn't Stand the Weather" (1984), and "Soul to Soul" (1985).

    Career Highlights:

    As part of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble, Tommy Shannon performed in iconic venues around the world and became known for his electrifying live performances. His bass lines on songs like "Pride and Joy", "Cold Shot", and "Crossfire" showcased his exceptional talent and helped solidify Stevie Ray Vaughan's status as a blues legend.

    Tragedy and Aftermath:

    Unfortunately, tragedy struck on August 27, 1990, when a helicopter carrying Stevie Ray Vaughan and members of Eric Clapton's entourage crashed after a concert in Wisconsin. The accident claimed the lives of all on board, including Stevie Ray Vaughan. The world mourned the loss of a guitar legend, and Tommy Shannon was deeply affected by the passing of his close friend and musical partner.

    After Stevie Ray Vaughan's death, Tommy Shannon continued to honor his legacy through his music. He played with various bands and musicians, paying tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan's work while also exploring new musical endeavors.

    Legacy:

    Tommy Shannon's contributions to the world of blues and rock, particularly through his collaboration with Stevie Ray Vaughan, are immeasurable. His innovative bass playing and dedication to the craft have influenced countless bassists and musicians, leaving an enduring impact on the genre.

Track Listing of: Johnny Winter Progressive Blues
    Side One:
  1. Rollin' and Tumblin'
  2. Tribute to Muddy
  3. I Got Love If You Want It
  4. Bad Luck and Trouble
  5. Help Me
    Side Two:
  1. Mean Town Blues
  2. Broke Down Engine
  3. Black Cat Bone
  4. It's My Own Fault
  5. Forty-Four
 

Front Cover Photo Of JOHNNY WINTER - Progressive Blues France Sunset SLS 50301 12" Vinyl LP Album

 

JOHNNY WINTER - Progressive Blues France Sunset SLS 50301 12" Vinyl LP Album front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

 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 ).

Close up of record's label JOHNNY WINTER - Progressive Blues France Sunset SLS 50301 12" Vinyl LP Album Side One

"Progressive Blues" Record Label Details: SUNSET SLS 50301 , SACEM, SDRM , Made in France

"Progressive Blues" Record Label Details: SUNSET SLS 50301 , SACEM, SDRM , Made in France
 

JOHNNY WINTER - Vinyl and CD Discography and Album Cover Gallery



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.