About This Footage
This rare 4:47 clip of Johnnie Bassett performing "A Woman's Got Ways" on Fox 2 News is a treasure trove of electric blues history. Recorded in the late 20th century, this footage offers a glimpse into the life and work of a lesser-known yet influential artist.
Johnnie Bassett was an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter who spent decades working as a session musician before forming his own backing band in the 1990s. His music career spanned over seven decades, during which he released seven albums. Bassett's influences were diverse, ranging from Billy Butler to T-Bone Walker, with B.B. King and Albert King also having an impact on his playing style.
The clip itself is a prime example of Bassett's unique sound, which blends traditional blues with modern sensibilities. Accompanied by Keith Kaminski on tenor sax, Skeeto Valdez on drums, and Chris Codish on keys, Bassett brings "A Woman's Got Ways" to life in a way that showcases his mastery over the electric guitar.
The song itself is notable for being written by Bob Codish (Codsongs BMI), adding another layer of interest to this already captivating performance. The fact that it was recorded during an appearance on Fox 2 News Detroit further underscores its rarity, making this clip a valuable addition to any blues enthusiast's collection.
What makes this footage truly remarkable is the insight it provides into Bassett's later career. By the time he released "The Gentleman is Back" (Sly Dog Records), he had already established himself as a respected figure in the Detroit music scene. This performance on Fox 2 News serves as a testament to his enduring popularity, even among mainstream audiences.
Moreover, this clip highlights the importance of session musicians like Bassett, who often worked behind the scenes yet left an indelible mark on the music world. Their contributions may have been overlooked by some, but they played a crucial role in shaping the sound of popular music.
In terms of its historical significance, this footage is particularly noteworthy given the relatively recent release of "The Gentleman is Back." Recorded in the late 1990s or early 2000s, it provides a unique window into the electric blues scene during that period. The fact that Bassett was still actively performing and recording at this stage in his life only adds to the clip's value as a historical document.
For those interested in exploring the world of electric blues, this footage is an absolute must-see. Johnnie Bassett's performance on Fox 2 News Detroit offers a captivating glimpse into the life and work of a true master of the genre.
Curated from public records and music databases.
