Jimmy Witherspoon – The Spoon Concerts
Concert History
Explore the rich legacy of The ‘Spoon Concerts, showcasing performances from acclaimed jazz artists over the years.
Special Guests
Immerse yourself in memorable appearances by legendary musicians who have graced the stage, enriching the Bay Area jazz scene.
Unique Atmosphere
Experience the vibrant and inviting ambiance that defines The ‘Spoon Concerts, where jazz lovers feel right at home.
Jimmy Witherspoon – The Spoon Concerts
Jimmy Witherspoon — The ‘Spoon Concerts
The ‘Spoon Concerts captures the rich, expressive voice of Jimmy Witherspoon at the height of his powers. Known for blending blues, jazz, and rhythm & blues, Witherspoon delivers a master class in storytelling, soulful phrasing, and emotional depth. His warm, conversational style turns every song into a personal experience, revealing why he was one of the most respected blues vocalists of his era.
The album showcases Witherspoon in a live concert setting where his relaxed charisma and commanding stage presence shine. Backed by accomplished jazz musicians, he moves effortlessly between blues shouters, heartfelt ballads, and swinging jazz-infused performances. The result is an engaging blend of spontaneity and musical sophistication that captures the spirit of a great live blues concert.
BayAreaJazzLines Summary:
“The ‘Spoon Concerts presents Jimmy Witherspoon at his most captivating—combining blues grit, jazz sophistication, and masterful storytelling in a live performance that highlights one of the greatest voices in postwar American music.”
My Personal Favorite: Everyday I Have the Blues
The Spoon Concerts
Time’s gettin’ tougher than tough / Jimmy Witherspoon (3:04)
How long blues / Leroy Carr (3:25)
Corrine, Corrina / Williams, Chatman, Parish (3:21)
C.C. Rider (4:39)
Roll ’em Pete / Johnson, Turner (4:24)
Every day I have the blues / Peter Chatman (2:42)
Kansas City / Leiber, Stoller (3:10)
I’m gonna move to the outskirts of town / Weldon, Jordan (3:44)
Trouble in mind / Richard Jones (3:24)
St. Louis blues / W.C. Handy (3:48)
No rollin’ blues / Witherspoon (5:31)
Good rockin’ tonight / Roy Brown (2:24)
Big fine girl / Witherspoon (4:52)
T’Ain’t nobody’s bizness if I do / Grainger, Prince, Williams (6:30)
When I been drinkin’ / Bill Broonzy (5:38).
Personnel
Baritone Saxophone – Gerry Mulligan (tracks: Sides 1, 2)
Bass – Leroy Vinnegar (tracks: Sides 1, 2), Vernon Alley (tracks: Sides 3, 4)
Clarinet – Woody Herman (tracks: Sides 3, 4)
Cover – Jim Marshall (3)
Drums – Mel Lewis (tracks: All Tracks)
Liner Notes – Ralph J. Gleason
Piano – Earl “Fatha” Hines* (tracks: Sides 3, 4), Jimmy Rowles (tracks: Sides 1, 2)
Remastered By – Rudy Van Gelder
Tenor Saxophone – Ben Webster (tracks: All Tracks), Coleman Hawkins (tracks: Sides 3, 4)
Trumpet – Roy Eldridge (tracks: Sides 3, 4)
Vocals – Jimmy Witherspoon (tracks: All Tracks)
Where do I go after The ‘Spoon Concerts?
1. At the Monterey Jazz Festival
One of Witherspoon’s finest live recordings, capturing his powerful stage presence and effortless command of blues and jazz.
Why you’ll love it: The same live-concert energy and storytelling that make The ‘Spoon Concerts so enjoyable.
2. Jimmy Witherspoon at the Renaissance
A classic live performance featuring Witherspoon in a relaxed club setting.
Why you’ll love it: Warm vocals, blues feeling, and an intimate jazz-club atmosphere.
3. Singin’ the Blues
A showcase for Witherspoon’s signature blend of blues, jazz, and rhythm & blues.
Why you’ll love it: Excellent song selection and some of his most expressive singing.
4. Evenin’ Blues
One of his most acclaimed studio recordings, featuring strong jazz accompaniment.
Why you’ll love it: The same smoky, late-night mood that characterizes The ‘Spoon Concerts.
5. Jimmy Witherspoon and Ben Webster
A wonderful collaboration with tenor saxophone legend Ben Webster.
Why you’ll love it: A perfect blend of blues vocals and soulful tenor saxophone.