Taj Mahal, the iconic blues musician, has been a pivotal figure in the music scene for over half a century. At 83, he remains as vibrant and passionate about his craft as ever. In a recent conversation backstage in Los Angeles, Mahal shared insights into his illustrious career, including exciting new projects, his connections to musical legends, and the enduring power of the blues.
A Journey Through Musical History
In 1968, Mahal found himself performing at the Whisky a Go Go in Los Angeles, captivating an audience that included some of the biggest names in British rock. “Three of the Stones were dancing, along with three of The Animals,” he reminisced. The British rock scene, heavily influenced by American blues, was enthralled by Mahal’s electrifying sound. It was during this time that he approached Mick Jagger with a simple request: to let him know if there were any opportunities to play in England. “Three months later, they sent us eight first-class round-trip tickets,” he recounted, a smile breaking across his face. This led to a memorable performance at the Rolling Stones’ Rock and Roll Circus, alongside legends like John Lennon and The Who. “Wherever they went, it was happening,” he said, reflecting on his time with the Stones.
Fast forward nearly six decades, and Mahal is gearing up for another show, this time at the historic Wiltern Theatre. With over 40 albums to his name and five Grammy Awards under his belt, he shows no signs of slowing down. His latest album, *Time*, features collaborations with Ziggy Marley and includes a previously unreleased track by the late Bill Withers.
Influences and Inspirations
Mahal’s musical journey began at home, with his father, Henry St Claire Fredericks Sr, a talented composer and arranger who worked with Ella Fitzgerald. “He was an all-around musician, a classically trained Caribbean piano player,” Mahal shared. Despite his father’s early promise, he opted for a more stable life, leaving Mahal to explore music on his own terms. Growing up in Springfield, Massachusetts, Mahal listened to radio broadcasts from across the globe, nurturing his love for diverse musical styles.
Initially thinking of music as a hobby between farm chores, Mahal’s path shifted dramatically when he moved to California. There, he teamed up with guitarist Ry Cooder, forming the band Rising Sons and performing at the renowned Ash Grove folk club. This early experience helped shape his unique sound, blending elements from various genres.
Reviving the Classics
Mahal’s first solo albums, released in 1968, showcased his ability to breathe new life into traditional blues. His track “She Caught The Katy” later gained fame through John Belushi’s rendition in *The Blues Brothers*. “All I wanted to do was eventually be able to write good tunes,” Mahal remarked humbly.
His latest project, *Time*, sees him revisiting classic blues with a modern twist. A standout track on the album is “Wild About My Lovin’,” an old blues number that Mahal has infused with Caribbean flair. “We’ve taken an old tune and put some Caribbean hot sauce on it,” he enthused, demonstrating his knack for revitalising forgotten songs.
Moreover, the album features “Time,” a song that highlights a previously unreleased demo by Bill Withers. Mahal lamented the music industry’s past treatment of Withers, noting, “He was a complete creative, and they were telling him he had to use synthesizers!” His respect for Withers’ artistry shines through in the new recording, which he describes as both a tribute and a testament to the enduring nature of good music.
The Timeless Nature of the Blues
For Mahal, the blues is not just a genre; it’s a lifeblood. During our conversation, he passionately stated, “You will never chew all the flavour out of the blues.” His belief in the genre’s resilience is palpable, as he continues to explore and reinterpret its themes. “Jazz will give you back your mind, reggae will give you back your body, but the blues? The blues will give you back your soul,” he declared.
As he prepares to take the stage once more, Mahal embodies the spirit of the music he loves. His ability to connect with audiences, both old and new, ensures that the blues will continue to thrive through his work.
Why it Matters
Taj Mahal’s contributions to music extend far beyond his own recordings; he is a bridge between generations and genres. His dedication to reviving classic blues while embracing new influences highlights the genre’s ongoing evolution. As he collaborates with younger artists and introduces unheard material from legends like Bill Withers, Mahal not only preserves the essence of blues but also ensures its relevance in today’s musical landscape. His journey serves as a reminder of the power of music to unify and inspire, proving that the blues will always have a place in the hearts of listeners worldwide.
