Paul Nelson Interview-Playing With Bluesman Johnny Winter
MuzikMan: Everyone is probably wondering what it was like playing with a legend like Johnny Winter. You back him on his new album I'm A Bluesman, can you explain to your fans and Winter's what the process was like recording and getting to know the man and his music? I don't expect a short one paragraph answer on this one Paul!
Paul Nelson: In a word amazing! I mean he is the man a true legend of the guitar! I have known Johnny for some time now and when he and producer Dick Shurman told me they were looking for a song for the new recording I began writing "Shakedown" I had Scott Spray come over to the studio and we laid it down as a demo. Johnny heard it and loved it so much so that he asked me to accompany him on it. This led to me co-writing one more song and another which was to become the title track "I'm a Bluesman," next thing I know I'm in the studio sitting face to face guitar to guitar with Johnny recording the rest of the album for Virgin records.
MuzikMan: You will be touring with Johnny to support the new album, when does the tour kickoff and how long is it? Do you plan on touring overseas after your U.S. gigs? Will there be opening bands or is just Johnny and his band playing?
Paul Nelson: Johnny has asked that I join him once he begins performing songs from the new CD (June 15th) and the band begins working on the new material. So I have agreed and am just waiting for the word. But right now I'm just enjoying being part of his new recording. I do know that the plans are for worldwide touring and he does use opening acts. On 2 shows I recently played as part of Johnny's Band and Coco Montoya was the opener. I think that was at LA's House of Blues.
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