A long-lost treasure trove of John Lee Hooker’s recordings, captured in 1973 for the educational series The Standard School Broadcast, is finally seeing the light of day. Taped at San Francisco’s Coast Recorders, this previously unheard collection showcases Hooker at his most intimate and unfiltered, offering an unparalleled look into the artistry of one of blues’ most influential pioneers.
Scheduled for release on February 28, 2025, via BMG, the collection will be available in multiple formats, including vinyl, CD, and digital streaming. For fans eager for more, the CD and digital versions will feature two bonus tracks: “Sally Mae” and “Coast Recorders Jam.” Pre-orders for this historic release begin today.
The Standard School Broadcast: A Groundbreaking Educational Program
Founded in 1928, The Standard School Broadcast was an innovative educational program sponsored by Standard Oil (later Exxon). The program, which aired across the Western United States via NBC, aimed to foster music appreciation and an understanding of American history. In one of its unique explorations of musical genres, the series invited John Lee Hooker to represent the blues, leading to a remarkable session that has remained hidden from public ears for over 50 years.
Unreleased Blues Gems
During this 1973 session, Hooker was joined by his trusted rhythm section: bassist Gino Skaggs, drummer Ken Swank, and his 20-year-old son, Robert Hooker, on piano. Together, they recorded eight tracks, of which only three were originally broadcast. The remaining five tracks are being released for the very first time, offering fans an unprecedented glimpse into Hooker’s raw and unadulterated genius.
These newly released tracks are captured live, without overdubs, edits, or extensive mixing—just pure, unfiltered blues. The music evokes a deeply personal moment in Hooker’s career, as it reflects both his deep connection to the blues tradition and his willingness to innovate within it. The set includes reimagined versions of Hooker classics like “Sally Mae” and “Hard Times,” as well as spontaneous creations and medleys that highlight his powerful storytelling through song.
Hooker’s Musical Philosophy and Artistic Legacy
Hooker once said, “I just go by the natural blues. I just play it as I feel it.” This philosophy is evident throughout the session, where free-flowing slow blues intertwine with bursts of raw emotion and improvisation. The tracks transcend mere entertainment, offering themes of regret, redemption, and resilience—giving listeners a candid portrait of Hooker as he grappled with his humanity through the transformative power of music.
A standout feature of the collection is the piano work of Hooker’s son, Robert, whose intuitive playing complements his father’s iconic voice and guitar. Whether providing a deep groove or delicate flourishes, Robert’s contributions showcase the musical bond he shared with his father. Together, with Skaggs and Swank, the ensemble crafts a rich sonic landscape that is both hauntingly beautiful and profoundly moving.
Highlights from the Newly Released Collection:
“Sally Mae”: A stripped-down rendition of Hooker’s 1948 classic, showcasing its emotional depth.
“When My First Wife Left Me/Hobo Blues”: A medley that seamlessly blends past and present.
“Should Have Been Gone”: A fresh take on Hooker’s staple, previously known as “I’m Leaving.”
“Hard Times”: A poignant reimagining of Hooker’s earlier track “No Shoes.”
“Rock With Me”: A groove-driven track that exudes an infectious spirit.
Had these recordings been released in 1973, they would undoubtedly have been regarded as a definitive Hooker album. Now, nearly half a century later, this release serves both as a historical artifact and a timeless piece of art. It captures John Lee Hooker at his most raw, vulnerable, and transcendent—truly healing himself through the blues.
Track Listing:
- Bad Boy
- Hard Times
- Rock With Me
- Should Have Been Gone
- I Hate the Day I Was Born
- When My First Wife Left Me/Hobo Blues
- Sally Mae (Bonus Track)
- Coast Recorders Jam (Bonus Track)
Note: Bonus tracks available on the CD and digital versions only.
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