Sonny Landreth

Frequently Asked Questions

What band did Sonny Landreth play?

Sonny Landreth is renowned for his work as both a solo artist and as a member of several influential bands. Most notably, he played with The Goners, a group that gained wide recognition as the backing band for John Hiatt, particularly on the critically acclaimed album "Slow Turning." Landreth's exceptional slide guitar work helped define The Goners' distinctive sound, blending roots rock with deep blues influences. In addition to The Goners, Landreth has also played with the band Blues Attack and has had significant stints with The Zydeco Band, led by Clifton Chenier, the "King of Zydeco." His collaborations with these bands have cemented his reputation as a versatile and innovative guitarist in the blues and roots music scenes. Landreth's ability to seamlessly blend traditional blues with Louisiana zydeco and rock elements has made every band he's played with stand out in the music industry.

What kind of music does Sonny play in Sonny's Blues?

In "Sonny's Blues," Sonny plays jazz music, not blues in the strictest stylistic sense, despite the title's implication. The story, written by James Baldwin, uses the term "blues" both literally and metaphorically to represent suffering, struggle, and emotional expression. Sonny, the central character, is a talented jazz pianist who uses music as an outlet for his pain and as a means of communication and connection. Jazz, with its improvisational nature and deep roots in African American history, becomes Sonny's chosen language. Through jazz, Sonny conveys complex emotions and finds redemption from his troubled past. The music in "Sonny's Blues" is depicted as a powerful force that bridges gaps between people, offering healing and understanding. The story highlights the transformative power of music, illustrating how Sonny's performances not only reflect his personal struggles but also foster empathy and reconciliation with his brother and the broader community.

What tuning does Sonny Landreth use?

Sonny Landreth is acclaimed for his innovative slide guitar technique, which is closely tied to his distinctive use of guitar tunings. He primarily uses open tunings, with Open E (E-B-E-G#-B-E) and Open G (D-G-D-G-B-D) being his favorites. These tunings allow him to achieve the fluid, expressive slide sound that has become his signature. Open E tuning, in particular, is a staple for many blues slide guitarists, as it enables full major chords to be played with a single finger or slide. Landreth's mastery of open tunings is further enhanced by his unique approach of fretting notes behind the slide, creating complex harmonies and melodic lines. Additionally, he sometimes utilizes standard tuning for specific songs, showcasing his versatility. His exploration of tunings has expanded the vocabulary of slide guitar and has influenced countless musicians across blues, rock, and beyond.

What is the significance of music in Sonny's Blues?

The significance of music in "Sonny's Blues" is profound, serving as both a thematic and narrative pillar of the story. Music, specifically jazz, symbolizes hope, redemption, and communication amidst suffering. For Sonny, music is a lifeline

Who has Sonny Landreth played with?

Sonny Landreth has played with an impressive array of legendary musicians throughout his career, showcasing his versatility and respected status in the music industry. He is perhaps best known for his long-term collaboration with John Hiatt, serving as the lead guitarist with The Goners. Landreth's slide guitar prowess has also led him to work with blues and rock icons such as Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, and Jimmy Buffett. He has joined Eric Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festival multiple times, sharing the stage with some of the greatest guitarists in the world. Additionally, Landreth has played with Bonnie Raitt, Gov't Mule, and Dr. John, further cementing his reputation across genres. Early in his career, he was a key member of Clifton Chenier's Red Hot Louisiana Band, contributing to the zydeco sound. These collaborations highlight Landreth's unique ability to blend seamlessly into various musical contexts while maintaining his distinctive slide guitar voice.