Long John Baldry

Long John Baldry is a music legend; although there are probably plenty of music fans who have no idea who he is. Baldry was one of the pioneers of the British Folk and Blues scene during the mid-1960's. As a member and leader of various Blues bands such as Blues Incorporated, John Baldry & His Hoochie Men, and Steampacket; he influenced, inspired and helped countless artists.

In the late 1960's, he had some chart success in the England with some Pop ballads, but that soon passed. By the early-1970's, this once influential figure in the British Blues scene was a forgotten memory for the most part. Then two former protégés, Rod Stewart and Elton John, decided to produce an album for their ex-bandleader/bandmate. The results are an undervalued and fairly unknown Blues gem, "It Ain't Easy." This is a gritty and raw Blues album with a lot of acoustic folk and soul. Any fan of the Blues and anyone who is interested in the burgeoning and highly influential British Blues scene from the mid-1960's should check out this lost-gem from Long John Baldry.

*The best way to explore these recordings (plus loads of outtakes) is on the limited edition Rhino Handmade title: "Long John Baldry - Boogie Woogie: The Warner Bros. Recordings."