Johnny Winter's "Saints and Sinners" is not just an album but a musical journey that continues to thrill and inspire music enthusiasts. Released on a 12" vinyl LP in 1974, this masterpiece showcased Winter's exceptional guitar skills and emotive vocals, supported by a remarkable ensemble of musicians. This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.
In 1974, blues-rock enthusiasts were treated to a musical gem when Johnny Winter released his iconic album "Saints and Sinners" on a 12" vinyl LP. With Rick Derringer at the helm as the producer and an impressive lineup of talented musicians, including Johnny's brother Edgar Winter, the album delivered a raw and electrifying experience that has stood the test of time.
The Masterminds Behind the Album
The musical genius behind "Saints and Sinners" was none other than Johnny Winter himself. As the lead vocalist and master of the guitar, Winter brought his signature bluesy style and fiery energy to every track. Assisting him was Rick Derringer, who not only played guitar but also took on the role of producer. Derringer's production prowess elevated the album, capturing the raw essence of Johnny Winter's performance.
"Saints and Sinners" was an album that seamlessly blended various styles of rock, blues, and soul. Each track stood out in its own right, captivating listeners with its unique charm. Some of the standout songs included:
1. "Stone County": The album's opening track set the tone for the bluesy journey ahead, featuring Johnny Winter's scorching guitar riffs and powerful vocals.
2. "Blinded by Love": A soulful and emotionally charged song, Johnny's expressive delivery was complemented by Edgar Winter's skillful keyboard accompaniment.
3. "Thirty Days": This upbeat and catchy track showcased the synergy between Winter's guitar and Derringer's guitar prowess.
4. "Stranger": A song that exuded a blues-rock swagger, Johnny Winter's guitar solo on "Stranger" remains one of the album's most memorable moments.
5. "Silver Train": Featuring a guest appearance from Randy Brecker on trumpet, this track had a groovy and funky vibe, further diversifying the album's sound.
Legacy and Influence
"Saints and Sinners" achieved critical acclaim upon its release and cemented Johnny Winter's position as a blues-rock legend. The album's impact on the music world was substantial, inspiring countless musicians across generations. Its fusion of blues, rock, and soul elements pushed boundaries and resonated with audiences worldwide.
Moreover, "Saints and Sinners" became a must-have for vinyl collectors and audiophiles who sought to preserve the rich analog sound of the era. Even in the digital age, the album's warm, authentic vinyl experience remains highly sought after.
Blues Rock
CBS S 65842
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
Recorded 1974, Made in USA
This album comes with a custom inner sleeve with full-page photos of Johnny Winter
Rick Derringer - Producer
Johnny Winter — lead vocals; guitars
Rick Derringer — guitars
Rick Derringer 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. After The McCoys disbanded, Derringer joined the band "Johnny Winter And" with blues guitarist Johnny Winter. Read Derringer's biography and colloberation with Johnny Winter
Edgar Winter — keyboards
Edgar Winter is a renowned American musician, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who has made significant contributions to the worlds of rock, jazz, blues, and pop music. Born on 28 December 1946, in Beaumont, Texas, Edgar Holland Winter was destined for a life immersed in music, given his family's musical background. His father, Johnny Winter Jr., was a skilled saxophonist and guitarist, and his mother, Edwina, was a talented pianist.
Dan Hartman — bass
Dan Hartman, a multi-talented musician, rose to fame with hits like ‘Instant Replay’. Learn more
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.
Bobby Caldwell - drums
Bobby Cadwell started playing at the age of ten and by fourteen was playing professionally. At age nineteen, he was asked to join Johnny Winter's new super group "Johnny Winter AND" featuring Rick Derringer formerly of the McCoy's of "Hang on Sloopy" fame. This group produced the top twenty album "Johnny Winter And Live". This was Johnny Winter 's highest selling CBS album ever. You can also hear Bobby Cadwell on Johnny Winter 's "Saint's and Sinners" album. Rick Derringer then asked him to play on his first solo LP on CBS "All American Boy" which produced the now classic top ten hit "Rock and Roll Hootchie Koo".
After playing with Johnny Winter and Rick Derringer, Bobby Caldwell went on to form a band in 1972 with the members of "Iron Butterfly" including Lee Dorman, Rhino and Rod Evans. The band "Captain Beyond" toured briefly with the Allman Brothers in 1972 and included a show in Philadelphia. They have 3 albums out of which the first is some of the most progressive rock of it's day. For a complete biography on Bobby Caldwell and Captain Beyond, see: "The Myopic Void"
Joined Armagedon in 1973.
After leaving Johnny Winter, Bobby rejoined Johnny Winter to record Saints and Sinners in February 1974.
Bobby Caldwell has been playing with a band called the Southern Rock Rebellion: the new Southern Rock Rebellion consists of former members of some of the most famous history-making Classic and Southern Rock bands of all times: Blackfoot, Johnny Winter And, The Outlaws, Captain Beyond and The Danny Joe Brown Band
Richard Hughes, the powerhouse drummer behind Johnny Winter's iconic 70s sound. Discover rare vinyl, live recordings, and the story of a rock legend.
Randy Brecker — trumpet
Louis del Gatto — tenor saxophone
Alan Rubin - trumpet
Jon Smith - saxophone section
Kansas — handclaps
Jo Jo Gunne — handclaps
Lani Groves - backing vocals
Carl Hall — backing vocals
Barbara Massey - backing vocals
Tasha Thomas - backing vocals
"Sing Sing" Singers – backing chorus
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 "Saints & Sinners" (CBS-U.S. Import £2.45) A superior package and presentation to "Still Alive and Well", this is the closest Winter has come to delivering the perfect vehicle—and vehicle is apt for a record that trucks like an Inter-City express.
December's child and his aides (which include producer Rick Derringer, brother Edgar, Dan Hartman, Randy Hobbs, and Jo Jo Gunne) could teach rock 'n' roll to the bulk of today's hopefuls and a good percentage of the recognised greats. So advanced is their craftsmanship, the tightness of the ensemble is 3D thick, with the warmth and snap of Steve Gadd's studio drumming, Johnny's invariable sense for the Stones mixed with Chuck Berry's smart rock 'n' roll fans, Thirties roll, and Larry Williams' old Boney Moroney.
Sore throat followers can go to town on blues with Riot in Cell Block 9 and Hurtin' So Bad, while driving heavy rock predominates the other five cuts. Production by Rick D. is clear and punchy; organic direction is by manager Steve Paul — and that has to be defined to be believed!
Cover photo looks like Kenny Everett used an electric razor in the bath.
— KG
Source & Full Article Disc Magazine (UK) Review of Saints and Sinners 11 May 1974: Saints and Sinner a superior package and presentation...
Facts: New Winter LP. Johnny sings and plays guitar and is accompanied by his brother Edgar (piano, organ, saxophone, vocals) as well as his old bandmates Rick Derringer (guitar), Randy Jo Hobbs (bass), Dan Hartman (guitar, bass, vocals), and Richard Hughes (drums).
The LP consists of ten tracks, including:
And not to be forgotten: The US band Jo Jo Gunne provided the hand clapping.
---
Review: Rock fans – listen up! Johnny Winter has little to do with the blues anymore. He plays hard, bone-dry rock. Electrifying guitar riffs flow seamlessly with Johnny’s throaty voice – backed by a solid bass and drums.
And when things get a bit more playful towards the end on «Feedback On Highway 101», it sounds like this: fast rhythm, percussion instruments, rock guitar, synthetic strings, vocals, and saxophone...
A hot Winter!
Johnny Winter has just finished the final mixes of his new album, and this white label copy arrived from the States hot off the presses this week. It's Johnny's second "comeback" album, and as such, he has had full opportunity to take his time and show that he really is still alive and well, since the last album was something of a misnomer, fairly disappointing from beginning to end.
"Saints & Sinners" marks a reunion of musicians since Rick Derringer produced it. Brother Edgar organises some lovely horn work and plays keyboards. Bobby Caldwell plays drums on a few cuts, Jon Smith and Dan Hartman also sit in alongside Johnny's permanent sidemen Randy Jo Hobbs on bass and Richard Hughes on drums.
The message is plain from the opening cut when Winter and Co. fairly tear into Richard Supa's "Stone County" and never let up. And in a sense, that's the main criticism of this album and marks the tendency of Derringer to over-embellish in the studios. The whole album is too uptight and too upfront, as though Winter and Derringer between them are trying to contrive the excitement rather than let it flow naturally.
Winter's guitar sits well into the overall ensemble but rarely gets the chance to break out with that strident grace for which he is known.
As for the tracks, the promised David Bowie song hasn't materialised, but once again Johnny pays tribute to The Rolling Stones on "Stray Cat Blues" and Allen Toussaint with "Blinded By Love," where he is happy to let his guitar rest behind Derringer's. These are the two outstanding cuts and completely overshadow the older classics like Chuck Berry's "Thirty Days," Larry Williams' "Boney Maroney," and the Lieber-Stoller composition "Riot In Cell Block No. 9," which has just about been done to death.
Johnny Winter still has a lot of playing in him, that much is for sure—but right now, he needs Edgar or Rick or Steve Paul to point him in the direction in which he can work easily without trying to prove himself all over again.
— J.G.
Synopsis: This article traces the triumphant return of blues-rock legend Johnny Winter after a battle with heroin addiction. Winter, an albino blues prodigy from Texas, rose to fame in the late 1960s, but the pressures of stardom and relentless touring took their toll. After a two-year hiatus, Winter emerged with renewed vigor and a commitment to his music and personal well-being. His latest album, "Saints and Sinners," showcases his confidence and musical maturity, blending classic blues with rock and new material. Winter's story is one of resilience and redemption, proving that true artistry can overcome even the darkest challenges.
Read The Full Article: Saints and Sinners - Johnny Winter's Celebration of Freedom
JOHNNY WINTER Saints and Sinners. CBS 65842. Producer: Rock Derringer – Has been called the best white blues singer alive, inexplicably on the evidence of this motley collection, which includes songs by Chuck Berry, the Stones, Van Morrison and Lieber/Stoller, together with several self-penned tracks. In view of this variety, the monotony of the music is something of an achievement. Peppered with hackneyed 10-year old guitar riffs, as on the rock standard Boney Moroney, presumably in an attempt at nostalgic re-creation. Only for the already converted.
JOHNNY WINTER: Saints And Sinners (CBS)
Whilst English rock musicians have mostly got the bad taste field sewn up, an award of some sort should be made to the brothers Winter, who have long specialised in unpleasant noises. Edgar was all right once—his solo Entrance and the first White Trash album were very enjoyable—but Johnny, to me at least, has never seemed like any more than a freaky-looking, very ordinary-sounding guitarist, with a rasping, grating excuse for a voice.
On Saints And Sinners, Johnny is slightly more adventurous than usual in choice of material. He tackles Van Morrison’s “Feedback On Highway 101” and Jagger/Richards' “Stray Cat Blues” with (just) tolerable results. And a slow blues, “Hurting So Bad,” works okay, within its own limitations.
It’s the up-tempo ones that I can’t listen to at all. “Riot In Cell Block 9” and “Boney Moroney” are both over-endowed with the Winter faster-than-the-speed-of-light guitar. It’s not an original line, but I’ll say it anyhow—what’s Johnny going to do with all the time he saves by playing so fast?
Of course, it’s the easiest thing in the world to dash off a negative album review; maybe this album represents hours of careful, dedicated work in the studios, but somehow I don’t think so. Still, if your idea of fun is being earbashed by an unrelenting blur of high-pitched guitar, then Saints And Sinners is just what you’ve been waiting for ever since the last Ten Years After record. — S.L.
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