Who says touring is a young man's game?
With a combined chronological time on Earth of 157 years, one had to wonder about the likelihood of ever seeing this twosome on the same bill again. It was an experience to be savored.
The youngster at 73, Buddy Guy was in the leadoff spot. He launched into a killer version of "Best Damn Fool" from his latest album, Skin Deep, making his Fender howl, scream and moan as only he can. There's a line in the song that goes, "I can make a bulldog kiss a pussycat." Based on Buddy's playing this night, I do not doubt it, not even a little.
He traded in his signature black with white polka dotted axe for a more vanilla Fender this night, but his licks were as ferocious, as searing and, when necessary, as subtle as ever. Rather than playing only his own music, he realized that on this evening he was the opener, and that some in the crowd that might not be familiar with Buddy Guy. So, the set list included covers of Muddy Waters' "Hoochie Koochie Man," "I Just Wanna Make Love To You" and the "not Springsteen" rendition of "Fever" -- the smoky jazz influenced version.
Somewhere around mid-set Buddy paid homage to King, as I've witnessed so many acts respectfully acknowledge B.B.'s legend and legacy. "I'm standing on top of the world to be playing with him," proclaimed Buddy.
He closed with "Damn Right I Got the Blues" (the title track from his 1991 album) with a segue into a most soulful and stirring rendition of his latest title track, "Skin Deep." Make no mistake about it, this was Buddy's crowd. It was like witnessing the passing of the torch. Musically, Buddy stole the show.
Funny how some things never change
These observations are offered with nothing but admiration, respect and, sometimes, awe for B.B. King. I saw him, for the first time 37 years ago, opening for the J. Geils Band. JGB lead singer, Peter Wolf was visibly embarrassed at the order of the talent that night as he paid homage to the King, and Wolf was the headliner!
B.B. and his band played virtually the same set, with mostly the same songs, that have been showcased on their tour for the past many years. These days B.B. (who has always been something of a raconteur) is much more inclined to telling stories than to working "Lucille" to death. And, for my money, that's perfectly cool. Its not like the man hasn't paid his dues.
The joy that radiates as B.B. jokes with the crowd, his rascally old stage antics as he relates stories of his doctors (Dr. Viagra, Dr. Levitra and Dr. Cialis) can't help but make you smile. And he drops in just enough "Lucille" licks to let you know he can still play, extremely well.
Do it while you can
He may mention that he's 84 once or twice, and the irony of that following "Key to The Highway" with "See That My Grave is Kept Clean" was not lost on most of those in attendance. He showed signs of his unique trademark flair on "When Love Comes to Town" (actually, it was one helluva rave-up, age notwithstanding) "Rock Me Baby" and show closer "The Thrill is Gone". His band, as always, alternated between playing foils for the King's stories and doing a great impersonation of the tightest blues band ever assembled.
If you want to listen to B.B.'s music, buy his albums. If you want to be entertained, catch him while you can, live in concert.
My pre-show expectations were met and, to some extent, exceeded, although not exactly as I had hoped or planned. Which is exactly why we go to live shows!
