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.
Band-Members and Musicians
The collaborative effort of exceptionally talented musicians contributed to the album's sonic brilliance:
1. Edgar Winter: As Johnny's brother, Edgar Winter's addition to the album brought a dynamic and diverse range of keyboard sounds, enriching the blues-rock experience.
2. Dan Hartman: Known for his bass guitar skills and songwriting prowess, Dan Hartman's presence added depth and groove to the album.
3. Randy Jo Hobbs: Another bassist, Randy Jo Hobbs, was a prominent figure in the blues-rock scene. His contribution to "Saints and Sinners" was invaluable.
4. Bobby Caldwell and Richard Hughes: The two drummers, Bobby Caldwell and Richard Hughes, formed a formidable rhythm section that laid the foundation for the album's infectious beats.
5. Randy Brecker: Adding a touch of brass to the mix, Randy Brecker's trumpet playing added a layer of soulful and jazzy elements to the album.
The Tracks That Defined an Era
"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 (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."
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.
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.
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, Johnnie Winter Sr., was a skilled saxophonist and guitarist, and his mother, Edwina, was a talented pianist.
Edgar Winter's musical journey began at a young age when he started learning classical piano and clarinet. However, it was his introduction to the alto saxophone during his teen years that sparked a lifelong passion for music. Alongside his younger brother, Johnny Winter, a renowned blues guitarist, Edgar honed his skills and became a proficient saxophonist.
In the late 1960s, Edgar formed his first band called "The Crystaliers", which mainly played covers of popular songs at local venues. However, his big breakthrough came in 1970 when he founded "The Edgar Winter Group". The band's lineup included Ronnie Montrose on guitar, Dan Hartman on bass, and Chuck Ruff on drums. They quickly gained popularity, thanks to their unique fusion of rock, jazz, and blues influences.
The Edgar Winter Group's debut album, "Entrance", was released in 1970 and received critical acclaim. However, it was their 1972 release, "They Only Come Out at Night", that catapulted them to stardom. The album featured the iconic instrumental track "Frankenstein", which showcased Edgar Winter's exceptional skills on the synthesizer. "Frankenstein" became a massive hit and earned him a Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance.
Following the success of "They Only Come Out at Night", the band released several more albums, but none matched the commercial success of their breakthrough record. Nevertheless, Edgar Winter's reputation as a talented and innovative musician continued to grow. Here you will find a selection of the vinyl records released by Edgar Winter.
Throughout his career, Edgar Winter collaborated with various artists and musicians, showcasing his versatility and proficiency on multiple instruments, including saxophone, keyboards, synthesizer, and vocals. He also ventured into producing and writing music for other artists.
In addition to his work with The Edgar Winter Group, Edgar pursued a solo career, releasing albums that explored different genres and musical styles. His solo discography includes albums such as "Jasmine Nightdreams", "Shock Treatment", and "Mission Earth".
Over the years, Edgar Winter has remained active in the music industry, touring extensively and captivating audiences with his electrifying performances. His music continues to influence aspiring musicians and resonate with fans across generations.
Dan Hartman — bass
Dan Hartman was born on 8 December 1950, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA. From a young age, he displayed a deep passion for music and began playing various instruments, including the guitar, bass, keyboards, and drums. This diverse musical background would later become a significant factor in shaping his successful career.
Musical Career Beginnings:
In the early 1970s, Dan Hartman gained recognition as a member of the rock band, The Edgar Winter Group. He joined the band as a bassist and backing vocalist, contributing to their critically acclaimed album, "They Only Come Out at Night" (1972). This album featured the band's biggest hit, "Frankenstein", which showcased Hartman's musical versatility and solidified his position in the music industry.
Collaboration with Johnny Winter:
After his stint with The Edgar Winter Group, Hartman began collaborating with blues-rock guitarist Johnny Winter. He worked as a songwriter and producer for Johnny's albums, bringing his expertise to enhance Winter's bluesy sound. One of their notable collaborations was on Johnny Winter's album "White, Hot and Blue" (1978), where Hartman's contributions as a songwriter and musician helped in creating a successful record.
Solo Success:
As a solo artist, Dan Hartman achieved significant success, especially during the late 1970s and early 1980s. In 1978, he released his debut album, "Who Is Dan Hartman", which garnered attention with the hit single "Instant Replay". The song became a dancefloor favorite and climbed the charts, establishing Hartman as a force to be reckoned with in the disco and dance music scene.
In 1984, he released the album "I Can Dream About You", which featured the title track as well as "We Are the Young". Both songs became major hits, with "I Can Dream About You" reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The album's success further solidified Hartman's reputation as a skilled songwriter, vocalist, and producer.
Later Career and Legacy:
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Dan Hartman continued to release albums and singles, exploring various musical styles and maintaining a dedicated fanbase. While he didn't replicate the massive success of his earlier hits, he remained a respected artist in the music industry.
Tragically, on 22 March 1994, Dan Hartman passed away at the age of 43 due to a brain tumor. His untimely death was a significant loss to the music community. However, his contributions to music, particularly in the disco and dance genres, continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.
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 – 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.
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 , 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.