Valencia witnessed an electrifying night of authentic ‘Chicago blues’  this week. John Primer, the legendary guitarist and singer, took the stage at ‘16 Toneladas’ with his Red Gibson electric guitar, Fender amp and in dapper attire! The intimate venue, known for its rich acoustics and dedication to live music, was the perfect setting for an evening of raw, soul-stirring blues. It was an atmospheric and much-anticipated night.

A Masterclass in Blues

A life of blues. Born into poverty in 1945, living in a shack with no running water, Primer lost his father at the age of four and his mother struggled to bring up a large family in these very difficult circumstances.  As resilient as they come,  John Primer moved to Chicago in 1963, paid his dues and was justly rewarded  by being chosen to to play with blues giants like Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon, and Magic Slim and  The Rolling Stones too.

Indeed, Primer was Muddy Waters’s band guitarist in Chicago right until the singer’s death. Given that Muddy Waters knew, admired and saw the ‘King of the Delta Blues’ Robert Johnson play live, John Primer must be one of the last genuine bluesmen… still alive and playing… with a connection that goes back to the  roots of this very special music.

A Night to Remember

Primer was joined by the talented Quique Gómez Band, whose tight rhythm section and harmonica playing complemented his signature sound flawlessly. The chemistry between the musicians was undeniable, creating moments that left the audience in awe. The rhythm section was superb….swinging and grooving throughout the set. It was tight but loose enough to make the whole set flow. It was just the right balance to perfectly complement this distinctive blues legend’s show. Local legend ‘Danny Boy Sanchez’ joined for a few numbers on impressive harmonica, which combined with Primer’s stinging slidework on guitar… and the energy just kept getting higher on this special night.

In Valencia, John Primer delivered a performance filled with deep grooves, blistering guitar fills & improvised solos, and storytelling straight from the heart of the blues tradition. The crowd, a mix of die-hard blues aficionados and fans of all ages, was captivated from the first note to the last. There were people happily dancing for the whole show!

Iconic Setlist and Standout Moments

The setlist was a journey that featured songs from the rich history of Chicago blues and more, featuring originals.  classics and fresh interpretations:

• “I’m Ready” – A number that set the tone for the night.
• “Hoochie Coochie Man” – The crowd roared as Primer paid tribute to former bandmate and leader Muddy Waters with this all-time classic.
• “I Can’t Be Satisfied” – A deep cut that highlighted his mastery of slide guitar.
• “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” – A soulful singalaong rendition of The Temptations’ hit, infused with bluesy grit as well  as the timeless soul number ‘Stand by Me.’
• “I’m a Man” – The iconic Bo Diddley track had the audience clapping and stomping along.
• “Let it Bleed” – A bluesy & pumping version of the Rolling Stones late 1960s classic. As Primer reminded the audience, his cover of this song can be found on the album ‘Chicago plays the Stones.’

As the final notes rang out and the crowd erupted into applause, it was clear that John Primer had delivered one of the most memorable blues performances Valencia has seen in years. His show at ‘16 Toneladas’ was a testament to the timeless power of the blues, reminding everyone why he remains one of its greatest torchbearers. For those lucky enough to be there, it was a night of pure, unfiltered blues magic—one that will resonate long after the final encore.

Report by ‘24/7 Valencia’ team

Article copyright ‘24/7 Valencia’

Photos copyright Phillip Solomonson / ’24/7 Valencia’

More info about the photographer:

www.philamonjaro.com
https://www.facebook.com/philamonjarostudio
https://www.instagram.com/philamonjaro/