7 More Tunes...: Damn Right I've Got The Blues...

When I came across this artist during my junior year of college, he had already released three albums. He's also only a year older than me.

Jonny Lang has been referred to a prodigy not only for his incredible guitar abilities, but the fact that he's excelled in a genre you rarely see anyone under 30 performing--the blues. The great Muddy Waters has been quoted, "He's so good, I want to break his fingers!".

Jonny released his first album at the age of 14. His first few albums are more traditional, along the lines of his idols (and now collaborators) Buddy Guy, B.B. King etc. A Long Time Coming (2003) seems to have more rock elements to it, and Turn Around (2006) is more gospel.

He has a very distinct voice-you either love it or hate it. I happen to love it :)

I was able to see him at the Iowa Memorial Union in 2004. It was general admission, and was able to make it right up to the front with a few friends. It was such a great experience to see such talent in person. I had to laugh a little at the way he contorts his face when he plays, as if it hurts him to be so good on the guitar.

I was also lucky enough to chat with him a little bit after the show. For the way he wails during songs, he's surprisingly soft-spoken. He's also extremely gracious--an amazing musician and a good guy. Check him out!!