It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing on Christmas Day of Luther "Guitar Jr." Johnson. Perhaps most famous for being a long time member of Muddy Waters Band and later the Legendary Blues Band, Luther also fronted his own band, the Magic Rockers based in the Northeast United States. In addition to his recordings with the Muddy Waters and Legendary Blues Bands, Johnson had an extensive discography both as the main artist but appearing as a guest artist as well. Johnson's guest appearance on the Nighthawks critically acclaimed "Jacks and Kings Sessions" garnered a grammy nomination. Luther's unique sound, a combination of hard-edged Chicago blues and southern (Memphis) soul made for compelling live performances of which there were many. Lovingly known as "Gunther" by some of his Magic Rockers band members for his sometimes manic driving behavior on tour, Luther was old school as in the "show must go on". Luther had a sense of humor too. A long time sufferer of diabetis, Johnson titled one of his album's "Doin' the Sugar Too". For the uninitiated I would recommend that excellent cd as well as "Slammin' the West Side" both with his band the Magic Rockers.
Below is a gem of a video courtesy Ferrini Productions YouTube Channel shot at the Nightstage Club in Cambridge, MA. Luther starts with a rousing version of Come Baby with Ron Levy on piano and Jerry Portnoy on harp. Later Luther brings up on stage Pinetop Perkins. Great performances and interviews all around!
