New York — The iconic blues guitarist Buddy Guy, who celebrated his 90th birthday two months ago, was the guest of honor at a sold‑out “Buddy’s Got the Blues” concert Thursday night at Radio City Music Hall. The three‑hour‑plus event brought together a roster of celebrated musicians, a house band led by Rolling Stones drummer Steve Jordan, and a raucous audience that stayed on its feet for most of the night.
All‑star lineup pays tribute
Guy appeared only intermittently on stage, but his name and spirit were woven throughout the performance. Rising and established artists took turns honoring his legacy. John Mayer delivered a soulful rendition of Otis Redding’s “I’ve Got Dreams to Remember,” while Eric Gales and Joe Bonamassa jammed on the Jimmy Reed classic “Baby What You Want Me to Do.” Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks revived the Guy‑Junior Wells favorite “Messin’ with the Kid,” and the crowd cheered each tribute.
Guy’s own set and playful banter
When Guy finally took the stage, he wore a dark cap, dark pants and a polka‑dot shirt, opening with a gritty acoustic version of John Lee Hooker’s “I’m in the Mood.” He quickly switched to electric guitar, delivering a raunchy, high‑energy set that included a duet with longtime friend Shemekia Copeland on “Rock Me Baby.” The blues veteran also sang Slim Harpo’s “I’m a King Bee,” proving he still has the stamina to “buzz all night long.”
Later, fellow Chicago bluesman Bobby Rush, who is approaching his 93rd birthday, joined Guy for a spirited rendition of “Got My Mojo Workin.’” Rush later told the audience he would have walked from Mississippi just to be there, underscoring the deep respect younger musicians have for the legend.
New album on the horizon
Guy’s team announced that a new studio album is slated for release next year. The record will be produced by Steve Jordan and feature multi‑instrumentalist Ivan Neville, bassist Willie Weeks and several other musicians who performed at the Radio City show. The announcement adds to the excitement surrounding Guy’s continued creative output.
In a candid moment after the concert, Guy admitted he was surprised by the turnout. “I didn’t think this many people would be coming out for a 90‑year‑old man,” he said, laughing as he tried to blow out the candles on a cake presented at the end. “This is the greatest day I ever had in my life.”
Why the celebration matters
Buddy Guy’s influence on blues and rock music spans generations. As one of the last surviving Chicago bluesmen from the mid‑20th century, his style helped shape the sound of countless artists, from the Rolling Stones to modern guitar heroes. The Radio City tribute highlighted not only his musical contributions but also the enduring power of live performance to bring communities together across age and genre.
The concert serves as a reminder that great music can bridge gaps between tradition and contemporary culture, offering a shared experience rooted in faith, family, and the freedom to enjoy art without compromise.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
