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Chicago, United States · 1963–1971

The Paul Butterfield Blues Band

The music of The Paul Butterfield Blues Band is characterized by an electrifying fusion of Chicago blues and rock, creating a sound that resonated deeply in the music scene of the 1960s. Formed in 1963 in Chicago, the band brought together a talented group of musicians, including vocalist and harmonica player Paul Butterfield, guitarist Elvin Bishop, and bassist Jerome Arnold. The addition of guitarist Mike Bloomfield and keyboardist Mark Naftalin was key before releasing their self-titled debut album in 1965, which left a significant mark on the music of the time.

A pivotal moment in the band’s career was their performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. Despite being scheduled for a less prominent time slot, they managed to captivate an audience predominantly interested in folk, allowing them to showcase their powerful electric blues style. This event not only opened doors to new audiences but also caught the attention of Bob Dylan, who invited them to join him in his first electric live performance. This collaboration, though controversial, marked a turning point and expanded their recognition.

1 Albums
11 Songs
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1 album|s · 1965

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More about The Paul Butterfield Blues Band

Biography

The band continued their journey with several successful albums, standing out in the late-60s concert and festival circuit with memorable performances at venues like Fillmore East and the Monterey Pop Festival. Their innovative sound, blending blues with elements of jazz and rock, left an indelible mark on music, becoming an influence for future generations of musicians. Though they disbanded in 1971, their legacy endures, remembered for their ability to connect with audiences and their contribution to the evolution of blues and rock.

Details

Born
1 Jan 1963
Country
🇺🇸 United States
Genre
Blues rock

Members

bass · actual
Bugsy
· actual
Freddie Beckmeier
tenor saxophone · actual
Gene Dinwiddie
trumpet · actual
Keith Johnson
keyboards · actual
Mark Naftalin
eponymous · actual
Paul Butterfield
drums · actual
Phil Wilson
· actual
Rod Hicks
· actual
Steve Madaio
· actual
Trevor Lawrence
· 1963–1968
Elvin Bishop
· 1964–1966
Mike Bloomfield
· 1969–1971
Ralph Walsh
alto saxophone
David Sanborn
Jerome Arnold
drums
Phillip Wilson

Record labels

Elektra

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