Slash : "UK Music Is "Tame, Predictable And Faceless"

Slash reckons UK music is "tame, predictable and faceless".

The legendary former Guns 'N' Roses guitarist admitted he is "down on music in general right now" and said that the UK is lacking any bona fide rock legends in the making.

When asked if he feels the UK should have more rock stars on Wednesday (02.24.10), he said: "It's lacking there. I mean you've got the Gallagher brothers(Oasis) but they've been around forever. It's gotten sort of tame predicable and faceless."

He did, however, add he didn't want to single the UK out, and that music across the world is undergoing a hard time, though he remains positive it will soon pass.

He added to Absolute Radio: "I guess Lady Gaga has turned into a big personality. But we're at a dead zone in music right now. We go through this every decade. It's the beginning of a new decade, so I think things will get cool from here."

Slash releases his self titled debut album in Japan in March, in the US in April and in Europe in May. His first single from the album, 'By The Sword' will be released in Europe on March 1.

Rolling Stones Unearth 10 New Tracks For 'Exile' Reissue

The Rolling Stones, who have long resisted releasing archival material, will include 10 previously unheard songs in an upcoming reissue of "Exile on Main Street," the group's representatives said on Thursday.

The original 1972 release, a sprawling two-disc set regarded by many observers as one of their greatest works, features such notable tracks as "Tumbling Dice" and "Happy."

It was recorded in the grim basement of a French villa once used by the Gestapo. Guitarist Keith Richards was consumed at the time by a heroin addiction and singer Mick Jagger was distracted by his new wife, Bianca.

The reissue, due out in the United States on May 18 and a day earlier internationally through Vivendi's Universal Music Group, will be supplemented by new tracks with such titles as "Plundered My Soul," "Dancing in the Light," "Following the River" and "Pass The Wine."

While the Stones have been widely bootlegged, the four disclosed titles appeared to be unknown to collectors. Alternate versions of the album tracks "Soul Survivor" and "Loving Cup" will also be included. A publicist said she did not have information on the other titles.

Jagger told Rolling Stone magazine that he and Richards overdubbed percussion and guitar, respectively, on some of the bonus tracks.

They oversaw the project with producer Don Was, who has worked with the band for 15 years. The singer also wrote fresh lyrics for "Following the River."

Jagger has been reluctant to open the band's vaults because he views the veteran British band that dates back to 1962 as a contemporary rather than a nostalgia act.

Peers such as Bob Dylan and David Bowie, as well as thriving younger acts like U2, have been less resistant to the idea of dusting off outtakes and other rarities.

The reissue will also be complemented by a made-for-TV documentary, "Stones in Exile," which features rare archival film footage and photos as well as fresh interviews.

The album will be available in three configurations: the original 18-track release; an edition with the bonus tracks; and a package that also includes a vinyl version, a different 30-minute documentary DVD and a book.

Blues Legend B.B. King Keeps On Rolling With 2010 Tour Dates

LiveDaily is reporting that with a winter tour alongside Buddy Guy recently wrapped, B.B. King has mapped a round of solo dates that rounds out the winter and runs into late 2010.

The legendary bluesman will return to the road for an April 19 concert in Denver, working his way throughout middle America and parts of the West before wrapping up in Canada later this year. The sporadic 20-date club and theater trek currently concludes Nov. 21 in Ottawa. The full schedule is shown at right.

King, a 14-time Grammy winner, scored the highest-debuting solo album of his nearly 60-year career with his latest release, "One Kind Favor." The set, which surfaced in August 2008, debuted at No. 37 on The Billboard 200 chart.

Produced by T Bone Burnett (Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, Roy Orbison), "One Kind Favor" features covers of old blues songs that inspired King as a young man, and was made to sound like it was recorded in the '50s. Players include Dr. John on piano, Nathan East on standup bass and Jim Keltner on drums.

A 14-track live set entitled "B.B. King Live at the BBC" surfaced last March.

After more than 60 years in the music business, King has noticed some changes in the industry.

"We used to be called rhythm and blues singers; but after rock 'n' roll I guess we lost our rhythm, because now it's just called blues," King explained in a recent interview with the UK's Telegraph. "But I don't try to just be a blues singer--I try to be an entertainer. That has kept me going."

April 2010
19 - Denver, CO - Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre
20 - Rapid City, SD - Rushmore Civic Plaza
21 - Sioux Falls, SD - Washington Pavilion of the Arts and Sciences
23 - Springfield, IL - Sangamon Auditorium
24, 25 - Chicago, IL - House of Blues
28 - Columbia, MO - Jesse Auditorium
29 - Evansville, IN - Evansville Auditorium & Convention Center

May 2010
2 - New Orleans, LA - New Orleans Fairgrounds
8 - Augusta, GA - William Bell Auditorium
9 - Jacksonville, FL - Florida Theater

July 2010
15 - Baltimore, MD - Pier Six Concert Pavilion

August 2010
13 - Santa Ynez, CA - Chumash Casino

November 2010
3 - Eugene, OR - Huit Center for Performing Arts
5 - Coquitlam, British Columbia - Red Robinson Theater
8 - Calgary, Alberta - Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
10 - Regina, Saskatchewan - Conexus Centre of the Arts
11 - Winnipeg, Manitoba - Centennial Concert Hall
12 - Minneapolis, MN - State Theater
13 - Milwaukee, WI - Riverside Theater
21 - Ottawa, Ontario - National Arts Center

Woodstock Organizers To Bring Million-People Music Festival To Toronto

According to The Globe And Mail, a team of organizers plan to bring "the largest event in 40 years since Woodstock" to Toronto this summer.

As last year's 40th anniversary concert for Woodstock was canceled, original Woodstock co-promoter Artie Kornfeld and others have arranged for a massive charity concert. The Imagine Music & Art Festival will take place at Downsview Park in Toronto, Canada, on July 10 and 11. Kornfeld, who didn't participate in the 1994 and 1999 versions of Woodstock, has joined Montreal artist David Kam to combine the event with the G20 summit scheduled for late June in the same city.

Instead of taking place alongside with the G20 summit, the festival has been pushed back to July. Kornfeld and others expect over a million "dreamers" to attend and hope to broadcast the festival to over 300 million people worldwide. Downsview Park has held major events such as SARSstock in 2003 which included over 450,000 attendees.

The Imagine Music & Art Festival focuses on the idea of changing the world through music and will feature three stages on the two days with tributes to artists such as The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin. Kornfeld said he has had ongoing discussions with artists such as Pearl Jam, Rage Against The Machine, Foo Fighters and Lady Gaga while other publications have heard rumored names such as Radiohead, Paul McCartney and The Rolling Stones. Major headliners, ticket prices and other details are to be revealed in March.

Along with musical performances, the festival will showcase arts and activities such as a sustainability contest and "a mass release of butterflies". Organizers expect to donate 50 per cent of proceeds to organizations such as Save The Children, Amnesty International and the World Wide Fund.

"The world is now in an even deeper position than the Cold War and Vietnam. There's trouble in every country," said Kornfeld. "This is a chance to give hope, and who'll do it if not the old Woodstockers?"

Roger Daltrey Wants To Form Blues Supergroup With Jimmy Page

Roger Daltrey wants to start a super-group with Jimmy Page.

The Who singer is keen to form a new band with the Led Zeppelin guitarist and go back to the blues roots he established before he started writing songs with bandmate Pete Townshend.

He told UK radio station BBC6 music: "I'd love to do something, I'd love to do an album with Jimmy Page. He needs a singer to drive him. I'm a great blues singer.

"I don't sing the blues with The Who, but that's what I used to be before Townshend started writing. I used to be a great blues singer."

The project is more likely to happen as the future of The Who is uncertain, following comments made by 64-year-old Pete revealed he may have to stop performing because of a recurring problem with tinnitus - a painful ringing in the ears, a symptom of noise-induced hearing loss.

He said: "If my hearing is going to be a problem, we're not delaying shows. We're finished. I can't really see any way around the issue."

Meanwhile, Jimmy Page has spoken of his frustration at not being able to make a Led Zeppelin reunion happen.

The other surviving members of the group are busy, with singer Robert Plant recording a new album with vocalist Alison Krauss, and bassist John Paul Jones joining super-group Them Crooked Vultures.

Jimmy said: "You'd better ask Robert Plant what the future of Led Zeppelin is. Musicians can always play together but I don't think you can go out with a band called Led Zeppelin if you haven't got the original vocalist."

Jimmy has, however, spoken of his desire to get a new musical project off the ground this year, which could pave the way for Roger's plan.

He previously said: "Next year I have every intention of playing music live and manifesting it. I've got the music waiting, and that's what I'll be doing."

Wishbone Ash To Undertake UK Tour To Support New Single

Planet Rock is reporting that British rock legends Wishbone Ash have revealed details of their first single in 20 years and a tour to support the brand new material.

The song �"Reason To Believe"� is released on May 17th, and will be preceded by a tour that will take place throughout April, culminating in a show at Shepherd�s Bush Empire on May 15th which will see �Ash supported by Mostly Autumn and Panic Room.

To see a listing of tourdates and to order go to this location.

Blues Rock Guitarist Scott McKeon To Bring Trouble In March

Critically-acclaimed guitarist/singer-songwriter Scott McKeon is poised for the release of his sophomore effort Trouble, set for release March 29 via CD Baby. Just 23 years old, McKeon has already generated praise in the U.K. as a rapidly emerging guitar talent.

His 2007 debut album Can't Take No More received wide acclaim and earned the artist an opening slot for Eric Clapton, John Mayer and Sheryl Crow at the prestigious Hard Rock Calling in London's Hyde Park and Joe Bonamassa at The Royal Albert Hall.

Trouble features 12 new songs and contributions from Robbie McIntosh, renowned British guitarist and former member of The Pretenders. McIntosh has toured with Sir Paul McCartney and John Mayer, among others, and has done session work for Mark Knopfler, Roger Daltrey, Tori Amos and Norah Jones. The album also features vocals from David Ryan Harris from John Mayer's band.

Of the album, McKeon says, "With Trouble, I wanted to be able to incorporate bluesy guitar soloing into a more soulful rock environment. I also wanted to be more disciplined with the tunes to move them from a riff-based style into proper songs. I feel this album is more balanced but still allows me the chance to cut loose."

Scott McKeon first picked up a guitar at the age of four and has devoted himself to the mastery of his craft ever since. At seven years old, McKeon made his debut on U.K. national television and in 1998, he earned Guitarist Magazine's "Young Guitarist of the Year" award. Most recently, McKeon's music has been used on Guitar Hero 5, the soundtrack for the show "LA Task Force" and in the soundtrack for the award winning documentary, Rock Prophecies. For more info go to this location.

End Of The Line For The Who?

Rock Radio UK is reporting that Who mainman Pete Townshend could be forced to retire in March if doctors can't find a treatment for his tinnitus.

The band recently reached a whole new audience with their Super Bowl half-time show earlier this month – but Townshend says they're "finished" unless a test-flight of a new in-ear monitoring system goes well in London.

Their show in aid of the Teenage Cancer Trust is the only concert they've booked this year, and the guitarist is ready for it to be their last. He tells Rolling Stone: "If my hearing is going to be a problem, we're not delaying shows. We're finished. I can't really see any way around the issue." To read more go to this location.

Video Premiere : Jimi Hendrix "Valleys Of Neptune"

Here's the video, via Spinner.com for Jimi Hendrix's Valleys of Neptune,' the title track of the upcoming album of the same name, due March 9, of studio tracks Hendrix recorded in 1969.

The songs capture Jimi's transition from the Experience, the group that originally made him famous, to his later work, which was cut short by his death in 1970. Have a look at the video below.

Glenn Hughes On Black Country - "There Will Be Proper Touring"

Glenn Hughes recently had a lengthy conversation with Tony Conley of the Rock Guitar Daily online blog to talk about Black Country, his new band formed with drummer Jason Bonham,(Led Zeppelin, U.F.O., Foreigner) hard rockin' bluesman Joe Bonamassa and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater).

The following is an excerpt from the interview:

I spoke with Glenn at length yesterday about this exciting new band. Here's what he had to say:

"I had a bit of a vision, a dream," Hughes begins, "I had a follow-up to last year's record (the excellent First Underground Nuclear Kitchen, F.U.N.K.) fully written and ready to go, but there had to be a hold up to the follow-up. As you know, I played with Joe at the Guitar Center show in November, shortly after I had wrapped up my world tour. He had asked me to come up and do a couple of my old tunes, 'Mistreated', and 'Medusa', and as we played I looked over at Joe, he back at me, and I said that's it; this is a band!"

There's ample proof of the chemistry shared between the two over on YouTube, and it is pretty obvious that this is not just two successful solo acts getting together for a one-off project. Black Country is their new group, a band, a tribe from and of the black country of England, the home of both Hughes and Bonham.

"I've known Jason since he was a child, what is he? about mid-forties now, and we've played together through the years, on occasion, and when we started playing with Joe and Derek, he just smiled."

Hughes points out that in spite of himself and Bonamassa both having very busy careers, this record may upset things a bit.

"There will be proper touring, not just going out for a few shows here and there. My voice gets stronger as I work, and this will be a touring band. We've got all the songs written, titles are in place, and Joe has clearly told me, 'I want to be in a rock band,' so he's got some Zeppelin in him, and some times he's as bluesy as Kossoff (Paul Kossoff, legendary guitarist for Paul Rodgers' Free). He's singing and writing great stuff as well."

Read more at this location.

COVERDALE/PAGE - Special Edition On The Horizon?

Bravewords.com is reporting : In 1993, Whitesnake vocalist David Coverdale and Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page joined forces under the moniker COVERDALE/PAGE and released a self-titled album.

Although there are no plans for the pair to record any new material or reunite for any shows, Coverdale reveals that "EMI have recently been making overtures to me about putting a 'special edition' together after they heard there were several unreleased tracks... but, time & resource is the problem...

We've been archiving lots of tapes, cassettes & videos at home recently & we have discovered a ton of the demos Jimmy & I made which could be very interesting for some people to hear...

We also filmed a lot of our writing & recording sessions... so, I feel we could put a terrific 'special' together that would be a treat to have... but, in reality, JP & I have never discussed re-issuing, or making another CP album... There is always the possibility of something happening... I just can't see it in the forseeable future as I am busy with 'all things Whitesnake'...

Personally, I am thrilled I had the opportunity to work with one of my musical heroes... & to maintain a healthy, loving friendship with him...

At times, I feel some people don't understand that Whitesnake is my passion... I don't really look beyond what is possible outside... It's a very broad canvas for me to paint on... no boundaries... no restrictions... Oh... & I'm my own boss... Not too shabby..."

Rockabilly Pioneer Dale Hawkins Passes Away At 73

Rockabilly pioneer Dale Hawkins has lost his battle with colon cancer at the age of 73.

The singer/songwriter and record producer died on Valentine's Day.

He was perhaps best known for his 1957 hit Susie Q, which was the first release of a white artist on Chess Records.

The song later became a hit for rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival. Others who recorded the song include The Rolling Stones, Gene Vincent and Lonnie Mack.

Hawkins, who died Saturday in a Little Rock, AR, hospital, was known for his exceptional ear for guitarists: His other accompanists included Roy Buchanan and Presley's original picker, Scotty Moore.

Hawkins, was considered the architect of “swamp rock boogie” and recorded his first hit in 1956 with a 15-year-old guitarist by the name of James Burton.

I wrote that little guitar lick when I was 14,” Burton said, according to the Shreveport Times. “It got to be so pop in the club that Dale decided to write some lyrics to it and that became ‘Susie Q.’”

Hawkins recorded more than 40 songs for the Chess record label and was the third artist to appear on “American Bandstand.”

Clapton & Beck Getting Higher At The O2

Last night, February 14, two of the most legendary guitarists in rock history -namely Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck -shared the stage at the O2 in London, England. The show was the second, and last of their exclusive UK dates.

The pair will be picking up across the pond for two dates at Madison Square Garden in New York City February 18-19.

Here's a taste in the form of the Sly Stone classic "I Want To Take You Higher", at the O2, London :

Robert Plant Working On New Solo Album

Robert Plant is apparently in the midst of recording a new solo album entitled 'It�s Rude To Say No'.

Zeppelin fansite Lemon Squeezings reports that Plant has been in Nashville working on the new record with producer Buddy Miller and that the new album will be released later this year.

The news comes via a reporter for the Herald Courier who was doing a piece on musician Darrell Scott, who apparently appears on the new record.

Scott is quoted as saying "Those two-plus weeks were some of the most memorable times I've ever had in the studio. ... The number-one thing is that Robert loves music. You think they're posing and just getting through it, but I was humbled with how Robert Plant loved the music -- old country, blues, rockabilly."

Darrell Scott reportedly plays instruments as mandolin and glockenspiel on the new record. According to the report Plant was working on classic songs including "Cindy",� a traditional bluegrass number also recorded and performed under the title �Get Along Home, Cindy.�

ELP's Keith Emerson & Greg Lake To Undertake Unplugged U.S. Tour

Rock legends Keith Emerson and Greg Lake are to tour the U.S. starting on April 1, 2010 in an exclusive intimate evening of musical retrospective highlighting the iconic music of Emerson Lake and Palmer, the Nice and King Crimson.

The two man show with keyboard legend Keith Emerson and the famed voice and guitars of Greg Lake is an intimate "unplugged" prelude to the highly anticipated reunion of Emerson Lake and Palmer at the High Voltage Festival in July, 2010 in the UK.

For more info go to this location.

Get "Blue & Evil" With Joe Bonamassa

Hard rockin' blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa, who it was recently reported will be appearing at Eric Clapton's 2010 Crossroads Guitar Festival in June, has released a free track, "Blue & Evil" for download.

It's taken from the upcoming Kevin Shirley (Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden, Aerosmith, Black Crowes) produced studio album 'Black Rock', to be released world-wide March 23 via J&R Adventures. To download the song, and to pre-order the album go to this location.

Paul Rodgers Reveals Jamming With Fleetwood Mac's Fleetwood & McVie

Rock Radio UK is reporting that legendary vocalist Paul Rogers (Free, Bad Company, The Firm) has revealed he recently jammed with Fleetwood Mac veterans Mick Fleetwood and John McVie.

He says: "What we did was just play a lot of blues. I'm a big fan of Peter Green's Mac - I used to stand in awe in blues clubs around England. They're my heroes. It's fun to do these things and see where they take you. That's not to say we're getting a band together – but who knows."

In other Rodgers related news, Bad Company have a new release in stores today titled 'Hard Rock Live,' and are offering a free MP3 download of 'Rock and Roll Fantasy (Live)' from the release. The song was originally released over 30 years ago on the 1979 studio album 'Desolation Angels.'

'Hard Rock Live' is the reunion concert from Bad Company that occurred on August 8, 2008 at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida. The release can be purchased on iTunes, DVD or Blu-ray -- all of which include a bonus audio CD.

This free MP3 download from Bad Company is only available for two weeks at this - link

Jeff Beck, Joe Bonamassa, ZZ Top, Allman Brothers Among Guitar Stars Joining Clapton For Crossroads Guitar Festival 2010

More than 20 of the world’s best axemen will descend upon Chicago this summer for Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival.

The date is June 26 and the place is Toyota Park, located in Bridgeview, Ill., just outside the Windy City. Guitar slingers lined so far for the one-day event include B.B. King, Jeff Beck, Joe Bonamassa, Doyle Bramhall II and Buddy Guy as well as ZZ Top and the Allman Brothers Band. Vince Gill, John Mayer and Sheryl Crow will also appear.

Other artists appearing at Crossroads include Steve Winwood, Sonny Landreth, Bert Jansch, , James Burton, Earl Klugh, Robert Cray, Albert Lee and Hubert Sumlin.

All profits from the festival will benefit the Clapton-founded addiction treatment and education facility The Crossroads Centre, located on the West Indies island of Antigua.

“The Crossroads Festival is the realization of a dream for me, to gather a group of amazingly talented musicians to perform on one stage,” Clapton said in a statement. “The Crossroads performers are all musicians I admire and respect.”

It's Not Unusual : Tom Jones To Fill Aerosmith Frontman Slot?

Joe Perry has told Classic Rock that one name Aerosmith might consider as a stand-in for Steven Tyler is… Tom Jones!

Says Perry: “He’s got a great set of pipes, so why not? I’ve played with him before, and know he could bring something extra to the band. We haven’t approached him yet, but if he were interested that would be great. Imagine the interest Tom would generate.”

Perry now insists that, whoever the band bring in, this will be on a temporary basis, while Tyler pursues other activities. But, as soon as Tyler’s ready to return it will be business as usual for Aerosmith.

Johnny Winter Biography To Hit Store Shelves And Online This May

Blues rock guitar legend Johnny Winter's authorized biography "Raisin' Cain - The Wild and Raucous Story of Johnny Winter", by author Mary Lou Sullivan is scheduled to hit the shelves May, 2010.

Sullivan spent hundreds of hours with Winter on exclusive, one-on-one, no holds barred interviews for his biography. From toughing it out in Texas to his appearance at Woodstock, his affair with Janis Joplin, stadium-filling tours, a devastating fall into heroin addiction, and a triumphant road back to stardom, Raisin' Cain is a raucous roller coaster of a story.

With 400 pages and 56 photographs - including photos from Johnny's personal collection - this biography paints an intimate portrait of both the man and the musician.

Of the book Winter says " "I love this book. It has everything. All the things that I wanted people to know, from how hard it was growing up in Texas being an albino, my career, the early days, my problems with drugs . . . It’s excellent and very realistic – it’s exactly what happened".

Rolling Stone magazine has called Johnny Winter one of the greatest guitar players of all time. A legend and an icon, Johnny has jammed with guitar heavies Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, B.B. King, Freddie King, Buddy Guy, Dickey Betts, Rick Derringer and Duane Allman, and paved the way for fellow Texas superstars Stevie Ray Vaughan and ZZ Top.

For more information and to pre -order the book go to this location.

Jeff Beck Announces June U.S. Tour Dates

Guitar legend Jeff Beck has announced the second leg of the worldwide tour promoting his first album in seven years, 'Emotion & Commotion'.

The first leg of the U.S. tour will begin on April 16 in San Francisco and head through the world famous New Orleans Jazz Festival on May 1, while the newly-added second U.S. leg starts on June 3 in Boston and hits Atlanta, New Jersey, Detroit, and Indianapolis. Continuing the wave of critical success in the early months of this year, Beck was just awarded a 2010 Grammy (His fifth) for his take on The Beatles "A Day in the Life."

Beck and his band, accompanied by Irish rockabilly sensation Imelda May, performed Les Paul's "How High the Moon" on the show in a stirring and memorable tribute to the late, great, guitar virtuoso.

Shortly after the Grammy performance at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, Beck said, "I've often sung his praises to the press, but to actually get to play in tribute to him... it's such an honor."

Prior to the official kick-off of the Emotion & Commotion tour, Beck will unite with fellow Hall of Fame guitarist, Eric Clapton, in February for a series of exclusive shows in London, New York City, Toronto, and Montreal.

Accompanying Beck at these special engagements, as well as the World Tour, will be a brand new touring band, including the Grammy award winning producer and songwriter Narada Michael Walden on drums, Rhonda Smith on bass, and Jason Rebello on keyboards.

Pete Townshend Upset By Pre-Super Bowl Attack

The Who's Pete Townshend has been left "really saddened" by the actions of child welfare groups in the Miami, Florida area after officials posted flyers warning of the rocker's impending arrival to homes near Sunday's Super Bowl site.

The "My Generation" star was arrested and placed on Britain's sex offenders list in 2003 after he was involved in a child pornography scandal - and members of U.S. group Protect Our Children wanted to remind parents living near the Sun Life Stadium that he would be in the area this week, preparing for The Who's much-anticipated half-time appearance.

Townsend, who admitted using his credit card to view images on a child porn website, insisted he was researching a book. He was never convicted and later cleared.

The rocker's past came back to haunt him last month when thousands of the flyers, featuring an unflattering photo of the star and a warning to parents, were sent to homes in Miami - and he was upset by the "vigilantism" of the activists.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Townshend said, "I've been really saddened by it, and concerned about it.

"Anybody that has any doubts about whether I should be here or not should investigate a little bit further."

Ginger Baker : "Gary Moore Needs A Psychiatrist"

Legendary Cream drummer (and equally legendary old grump) Ginger Baker says playing with Gary Moore “finished rock’n’roll for me”.

In an interview in the latest issue of Classic Rock, Baker calls Moore “the Pampered Pompadour Of Pop”, reckons his playing is “contrived” and says he once recommended that the six-stringer should see a psychiatrist.

Baker formed BBM in 1994 with Moore and Cream bassist Jack Bruce.

“The sessions we did delighted everyone,” Ginger recalls, “even though he [Bruce] was acting like my boss again and treating me as a session player.

“A tour was suggested; I’d get £50,000 a gig. What I didn’t realise was that Gary Moore was playing so loud that he blew his ears – just as Jack had done to me. More gigs were cancelled than played. And they were awful anyway.

“Unlike Cream, everything with Gary Moore was contrived. Every solo he played was the same. I like to improvise.

“Unbeknown to me they organised a rehearsal at Brixton Academy, and when I got there I could hear Gary Moore’s guitar outside on the street. We played it note-perfect, as usual – should have been the fucking gig.

“The next day his manager phones me and says Gary’s blown his ears again and they’ve taken him to the doctor. I said: ‘Why don’t you take him to a fucking psychiatrist, cos that’s what he needs.’ That wasn’t the right thing to say to Mr God Almighty.”

Fifteen years later, the BBM experience still throws Ginger in a rage.

“That was a terrible time, playing with the Pampered Pompadour Of Pop. One gig was cancelled when he [Moore] cut his finger opening a fucking tin. Eric [Clapton] would have put a plaster on and played. Oh no, not Gary.

“And, again, it was so loud I had to have baffle boards on either side. I hate volume. Why does rock music have to be so loud? That was rock’n’roll finished for me.”

Coco Montoya Returns with I Want It All Back

Ruf Records announces a March 9 U.S. release date for 'I Want It All Back', the new release from acclaimed blues guitarist, Coco Montoya, distributed in the U.S. by the Allegro Corporation.

Produced by Keb' Mo' and Jeff Paris, I Want It All Back showcases Montoya in his most innovative setting thus far, tapping into his roots of blues, soul, rock, rhythm and blues and doo wop, while showcasing a soulful, passionate vocal sound that will serve as a revelation to those who only know him for his guitar prowess.

"People know where I'm at with the guitar, but here the vocals are being concentrated on," said Coco about the new album. "There will certainly be guitar, but the focus has been on song structure and my vocals. I think it's healthy to take chances. It's being able to humble myself and take direction and guidance. As co-producers, Keb' and Jeff have been working extensively with my vocals. I'm very proud of the performance they're getting outta me."

The producers assembled a cast of stellar musicians to back Montoya on I Want It All Back, including a core all-star rhythm section of Reggie McBride (Keb' Mo, Stevie Wonder, B.B. King) on bass and Stephen Ferrone (Average White Band, Eric Clapton, Tom Petty) on drums, with Keb' Mo' adding rhythm guitar and Jeff Paris playing keyboards. Rod Piazza on harmonica and "Miss Honey" Alexander on piano are special guests on a torrid cover of the Buster Brown classic, "Fannie Mae." Other song highlights of the new CD include the Motown sound of "Forever" (originally done by the Marvelettes) and The One Who Really Loves You" (Mary Wells' hit); the soulful "Cry Lonely," and "As Close As I Have Come," both co-written by award-winning songwriter Gary Nicholson; a modern take on Jackson Browne's "Somebody's Baby;" and a funky cover of The Penguins' doo-wop classic, "Hey Senorita."

Born and raised in Southern California, Coco Montoya grew up listening to a wide variety of music. His first blues apprenticeship came when he joined the band of blues legend Albert Collins as his drummer. After picking up the guitar, Montoya soaked up all the intensity, emotion and soul he could from playing with a blues master such as Collins. He later spent an extensive stint with another mentor, with the great John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers, with whom he recorded three albums, before leaving to go solo.

Coco Montoya released three critically acclaimed albums with Blind Pig Records in the '90s and was voted Best New Artist by the Blues Foundation in 1996. In 2000, he signed with Alligator Records, releasing three more albums that continued to build his reputation as one of the most exciting contemporary blues guitarists in the world.

Steve Vai,Orianthi, Mary J. Blige,Travis Barker Take On 'Stairway to Heaven'

A top secret recording session took place on Tuesday night involving a "supergroup" of sorts covering one of the most recognized songs in rock history: Led Zeppelin's classic "Stairway to Heaven."

The players? Soul queen Mary J. Blige on vocals, guitar god Steve Vai and his pop protégé Orianthi on rhythm and lead guitars, respectively, Travis Barker on drums and "American Idol" judge Randy Jackson on bass, with producer Ron Fair (Christina Aguilera, Pussycat Dolls) handling piano, the arrangement and all-star recruitment. The track's destination: Blige’s 10th studio album, due out later this year.

The Who Reveal New Hits Set

Planet Rock is reporting The Who are to release a brand new Greatest Hits collection that will be packaged with a pile of live rarities.

Greatest Hits & More is released on February 8th, and is a two disc set that features one disc of 19 classic tracks and another disc of 16 live rarities.

The Live CD features 16 of the live rarities that made up the US only download release of their Greatest Hits Live set which is out now.

There is also an expanded download only UK release of Greatest Hits Live which features 22 career spanning tracks.

Here�s the CD tracklist:

CD1
1. Baba O�Riley (original version)
2. Behind Blue Eyes (original album version)
3. Eminence Front
4. Happy Jack (single version)
5. I Can See For Miles
6. I Can�t Explain (original mono version)
7. It�s Not Enough
8. Love Reign O�er Me (single version)
9. Magic Bus (original stereo version)
10. My Generation (original mono version)
11. Pictures Of Lily
12. Pinball Wizard (original album version)
13. Real Good Looking Boy
14. Squeeze Box
15. Substitute (single version)
16. The Kids Are Alright (edit mono version)
17. Who Are You (single edit)
18. Won�t Get Fooled Again (original album version)
19. You Better You Bet (album version)

CD2
1. I Can�t Explain (Live at San Francisco Civic Auditorium 1971)
2. Substitute (Live At San Francisco Civic Auditorium 1971)
3. Happy Jack (Live at City Hall, Hull 1970)
4. I�m A Boy (Live At City Hall, Hull 1970)
5. Behind Blue Eyes (Live At San Francisco Civic Auditorium 1971)
6. Pinball Wizard (Live In Swansea 1976)
7. I�m Free (Live In Swansea 1976)
8. Squeeze Box (Live In Swansea 1976)
9. Naked Eye / Let�s See Action / My Generation (Medley) (Live At Charlton Athletic FC 1974)
10. 5.15 (Live At The Capital Centre, Largo 1973)
11. Won�t Get Fooled Again (Live At The Capital Centre, Largo 1973)
12. Magic Bus (Live At Leeds University 1970)
13. My Generation (Live At The BBC 1965)
14. A Man In A Purple Dress (Live At Nassau Coliseum 2007)
15. Who Are You (Live At Universal Amphitheatre 1989)
16. The Kids Are Alright (Live At Royal Albert Hall 2002)

It's True : Steven Tyler Tried Out For Led Zeppelin

It’s true – Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler auditioned to replace Robert Plant in Led Zeppelin.

It was early in the summer of 2008 that a rumor began circulating about Tyler trying out for Zeppelin – six months after the band’s reunion gig with Robert Plant on vocals at London’s O2 Arena.

…And it’s a rumor that Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry now confirms.

Perry tells Classic Rock Magazine :

“Steven disappeared and I called around. Somebody said that he was in London trying out for Led Zeppelin.

“It’s something I’ve never talked about before outside of the [Aerosmith] family, so to speak, and kept out of the press.

“It’s a kind of window into how hard it’s been to keep the partnership together.

“It’s certainly not the first time things like that have happened – that’s the downside of our relationship.”

The audition came about through Henry Smith, a childhood friend of Tyler’s who’d worked with Zeppelin.

In fact, Tyler invited Smith to accompany him to the Classic Rock Roll Of Honour in 2007, where the pair sat at a table with Zep guitarist Jimmy Page.

From various reports it transpires that Tyler came to the Zeppelin rehearsals unprepared, and under the impression that he would be writing new material with the band.

This resulted in some shambolic sessions, some embarrassing, awkward moments – and the Plant-shaped lead singer post still vacant.

Perry caught up with Page at last November’s Classic Rock awards where the Zep six-stringer filled him in on what exactly happened during Tyler’s try-out.

Perry says: “Page said he felt really awkward about the audition, but ultimately it was a group decision.”

Tyler returned to the States believing that Aerosmith were oblivious to his Zep escapade, and things carried on as normal until the singer took his infamous tumble from the stage at an Aerosmith gig in Dakota.

It ultimately dawned on Perry that Tyler was working to a different agenda, leading to his decision to try and look for a new Aerosmith frontman.

Rare Jimi Hendrix Artwork Surfaces On Valleys Of Neptune

MusicRadar.com is reporting that when Jimi Hendrix's Valleys Of Neptune CD is released on March 9, the cover will feature watercolor artwork that the late guitarist painted in 1957.

"Before he became a musician, Jimi wanted to be an artist," said Jimi's sister and Experience Hendrix CEO Janie Hendrix of Valleys's album and single art. "He went through a phase doing watercolors at school and this was one of the 110 drawings of his that our father kept.

"When I saw this one he did in 1957, it screamed Valleys Of Neptune to me, so we knew we'd use it for this project."

The CD cover art (shown above) blends Hendrix's painting with a photo taken by Linda Eastman - or Linda McCartney as she was later known.

To read more and to see the original artwork the cover was derived from go to this location.