At The Barrier pay tribute to one of the icons of British music, the unique John Mayall, who inspired many a blues fan and musician.
Our man Howard looks back on the blues trailblazer; a bonafide legend and 2024 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame inductee.
THE LEGACY
There are, in my opinion, three strands to John Mayall’s musical legacy.
First, and obviously, there is the extensive volume of blues material he wrote, performed and recorded since the 1960’s. It was material that was ever changing; Mayall was never one to rest on his laurels. He was determined to push the barriers of blues music as far as he could.
Amongst the many who went to see him live, performing Blues from Laurel Canyon and material released prior to that, we were confused when he bravely and (at the time controversially) brilliantly showcased his three piece band without drum or lead guitar.
THE TURNING POINT
This was indeed a turning point and demonstrated you can play stunning sensitive blues music without the traditional band set up. Although you probably wouldn’t see him mentioned in Prog media he was most definitely a very progressive, innovative and experimental musician.
Mayall may sometimes have been ruthless in relinquishing the services of certain musicians to enlist someone else who would be more capable of producing the sound he wanted. Many of them still had ultimate respect, and of course many went on to become more famous individually or part of major bands.
THE OPPORTUNITIES
Secondly, there was the talent he gave the opportunity to, to display their amazing skills. Most notably Eric Clapton, Peter Green and Mick Taylor on guitar. Not forgetting artists like bassists John McVie and Steve Thomson. Then there is percussionist Keef Hartley and flautist/saxophonist Johnny Almond. Both were burgeoning talents given their chance to shine in the early Bluesbreakers or later bands.
THE INTRODUCTION
Thirdly, and I count myself, he was often the introduction to blues music for the avid music fan.
When teenage party goers turned up with vinyl and a party beer can, and not a mobile phone, to contribute to the evening fun, many were introduced to blues music. Such was the impact, that you were turned from the plethora of pop artists and went in a different direction. Often inspired to take up an instrument too; and form or join a band.
Of course, Mayall’s music will live on, such is the huge fan base he accumulated over the years. One hopes there will be people today who might discover the blues through listening to any part of his extensive back catalogue of music.
Farewell my musical inspiration. I will forever be ‘looking back to see if you are looking back, to see if we are looking back at you!’
John Mayall: Website / Facebook / Instagram
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