Presse -Watson started as a pianist, 17 years old, in saxophonist Chuck Higgins' band The Mellotones. A song from that time is included on the collection, “Motor head baby”, B-side of a 78 written and sung by Watson. His solo debut came on Federal in 1953 with “Highway 60”, still with Watson on piano and using the stage name Young John Watson. The guitar became his main instrument the following year, 1954, but it was another year before he became Johnny 'Guitar' Watson.
09.04.2025
Presse -a tear-jerking semi-ballad sung passionately to a memorable string arrangement! In addition to his qualities as a guitarist (which did not escape the notice of Frank Zappa or Jimmie Vaughan), JGW was an excellent singer, influenced by Ray Charles (You better love, I say I love you), with a caustic sense of humor (Gangster of love is worthy of the Coasters). This compilation does justice to his blues period, another one devoted to the funk sides on DJM would be just as relevant!
02.02.2025
Press -Once again, the top recommendation is a Bear Family CD, namely “Johnny ‘Guitar’ Watson Rocks”.
Although the CD focuses on his uptempo songs, it still offers a good overview of his early years 1952-64 and scores with its long playing time, excellent sound and detailed booklet. For more details see Kilian's record corner in this issue of bluesnews. For blues guitar fans, Watson's “Hot Just Like TNT” 2-CD set is essential, as it contains his complete Modern/RPM recordings, plus his two Keen singles and a few previously unreleased tracks.
01.02.2025
Presse - However, the road from his beginnings in the 1950s and his fascination with T-Bone Walker's playing, through his collaborations with Frank Zappa, Albert Collins, Johnny Copeland, Little Richard, Bo Diddley, Etta James, to becoming one of the symbols of funk was eventful.
07.04.2025
