(Show Review by Adam Richards & Doug Dreisbach) Buddy Guy came to Whitney Hall on August 13 for his Damn Right Farewell Tour, and left his fans with a great goodbye. The 88 year old living legend put on an amazing performance with a tremendous band backing him up consisting of drums, bass, a smokin’ secondary lead guitar and keyboard player who both showed their skills with several fantastic break out solos. He told stories from his past and captivated the audience with every word and note played. He still has the voice and can wail on the guitar. Be sure to check him out if you can.
Buddy Guy, an iconic figure in the world of blues music, is coming to Louisville on Tuesday, August 13th for his “Damn Right Farewell Tour”. The show will take place at Whitney Hall at the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts and will be a testament to his enduring legacy and contribution to music.
Announced as his final major tour, it has been a bittersweet event for his fans, marking the end of an era while celebrating his incredible body of work. The tour’s name is a nod to his famous catchphrase, “Damn right, I’ve got the blues,” which is also the title of his Grammy-winning 1991 album.
Throughout the tour, Buddy Guy has been performing a mix of his classic hits and newer material, showcasing his versatility and staying power as an artist. Songs like “Stone Crazy,” “First Time I Met the Blues,” and “Skin Deep” highlight his ability to convey deep emotion and tell compelling stories through his music. His live performances are known for their spontaneity and energy, often featuring extended solos and interactions with the audience that make each show a unique experience.
The tour has also been a collaborative effort, with Guy often sharing the stage with other renowned musicians. This includes contemporary blues artists as well as those from other genres, underscoring his broad appeal and the respect he commands across the music industry. These collaborations have brought a dynamic and varied element to the tour, further enhancing the live experience for attendees.
In addition to celebrating his music, the “Damn Right Farewell Tour” has also been an opportunity for Buddy Guy to reflect on his journey and express gratitude to his fans. His storytelling between songs often includes anecdotes from his life and career, offering a deeper insight into the man behind the music. This personal touch has made the tour not just a series of concerts, but a heartfelt farewell to the stage that has defined his life for so long.
Buddy Guy’s “Damn Right Farewell Tour” is a fitting tribute to a blues legend whose influence will be felt for generations to come. It encapsulates the spirit of his music and his enduring connection with fans, ensuring that his legacy will continue to inspire long after the final note is played.
CLICK HERE for tickets and more information.
Set list from Birmingham, Alabama on July 27th
- Damn Right I’ve Got the Blues
- I’m Your Hoochie Coochie Man (Willie Dixon cover)
- Cheaper to Keep Her (Johnnie Taylor cover)
- Feels Like Rain (John Hiatt cover)
- I Just Want To Make Love to You / Purple Haze
- Chicken Heads (Bobby Rush cover)
- Have You Ever Been Mistreated / I Just Want to Make Love to You
- How Blue Can You Get? (Johnny Moore’s Three Blazers cover)
- Fever (Eddie Cooley cover)
- Grits Ain’t Groceries / Sunshine Of Your Love
- Boom Boom (very brief version) (John Lee Hooker cover)
- I’m a King Bee (Slim Harpo cover)
- Instrumental
Guy’s prolific career has spanned over seven decades and had been known for his electrifying guitar playing and soulful voice, and has influenced generations of musicians and continues to captivate audiences around the globe. One of his most notable tours in recent years is the “Damn Right Farewell Tour,” which has been celebrated by fans and critics alike.
Born in 1936 in Lettsworth, Louisiana, Buddy Guy moved to Chicago in the 1950s, where he became a pivotal part of the city’s vibrant blues scene. His style, characterized by its raw power and emotional intensity, bridges the gap between traditional blues and the more modern rock-infused sound. Guy’s influence is evident in the work of legendary artists like Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan, who have all cited him as a major inspiration.
