The Paul Butterfield Blues Band was a pioneering American blues band formed in the early 1960s. Led by harmonica player and vocalist Paul Butterfield, the band was known for their high-energy performances and innovative blend of Chicago blues and rock music. Over the years, the band released several critically acclaimed albums, earning them a place in the pantheon of blues legends. This article will take a closer look at the top 10 best Paul Butterfield Blues Band songs of all time, highlighting the band’s most influential and timeless tracks. From their early blues covers to their later experiments with psychedelic rock and jazz fusion, the Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians. This list will showcase the band’s greatest hits and lesser-known gems, showcasing their musical range and artistry. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the band or a newcomer to the world of blues music, this article is a must-read for anyone who wants to explore the best of the Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s iconic sound.
1. Born In Chicago
“Born in Chicago” is a classic blues-rock song that served as The Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s signature tune. The opening harmonica riff, played by frontman Paul Butterfield, instantly grabs the listener’s attention, setting the tone for the rest of the song. The driving rhythm section, featuring drummer Sam Lay and bassist Jerome Arnold, creates a propulsive groove that propels the song forward, while the guitar work of Mike Bloomfield and Elvin Bishop adds a gritty edge to the proceedings. Butterfield’s soulful vocals tell the story of his birth in the Windy City, a city steeped in blues tradition that he would go on to help shape and define as one of its leading exponents. “Born in Chicago” is a timeless classic that showcases the raw energy and power of The Paul Butterfield Blues Band at their best.
2. East West
“East-West” is a track that showcases The Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s ability to fuse blues with Indian and jazz music. Clocking in at over thirteen minutes, the instrumental track is a journey that takes the listener on a sonic exploration. The track starts off with a riff that builds into a fast-paced jam session where each member of the band gets a chance to showcase their skills. The standout performance is Mike Bloomfield’s guitar solo, which has been praised as one of the best in rock history. The song takes a turn with a section that incorporates Indian music elements, featuring tabla drums and sitar, before transitioning back into the blues rock sound. The song was a breakthrough for the band and solidified their place in the rock scene as innovators of blending different genres.
3. Mystery Train
“Mystery Train” is a blues classic originally written and recorded by Junior Parker in 1953. However, The Paul Butterfield Blues Band covered it in their 1966 album “East-West” and gave it a new life with their electrifying and soulful rendition. The song features Butterfield’s gritty and passionate vocals and harmonica playing, along with the band’s tight rhythm section and Michael Bloomfield’s fiery guitar solos. The band transforms the original slow and mournful blues tune into a fast-paced and upbeat rocker that captures the essence of Chicago blues with a touch of psychedelic rock. The song’s driving beat and infectious groove make it a favorite among blues fans and a staple of the band’s live performances. Butterfield’s interpretation of “Mystery Train” is a testament to his ability to blend different musical styles and create something new and exciting that still pays homage to the blues roots.
4. Two Trains Running
“Two Trains Running” is a classic blues rock track from The Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s second album, “East-West.” The song starts with a driving guitar riff before Butterfield’s powerful vocals kick in, accompanied by the band’s tight rhythm section. The lyrics tell a story of a man trying to catch two trains at the same time, a metaphor for the protagonist’s indecision and the challenges of life. The song is notable for its extended instrumental break, where each band member gets a chance to showcase their skills, including some blistering guitar solos and a standout organ solo by Mark Naftalin. The track’s raw energy and virtuosity encapsulate the band’s unique blend of Chicago blues and rock influences, which helped define the blues rock genre of the late 1960s.
5. I Got My Mojo Working
“I Got My Mojo Working” is a blues classic originally written by Preston Foster, but it was The Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s electrifying rendition that truly popularized the song. Released in 1966 on their debut album, this song features a driving rhythm section and searing harmonica solos that epitomize the band’s signature style. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who’s got his mojo working and is using it to win the affection of his lover. Butterfield’s gritty vocals and expressive harmonica playing bring a raw, visceral energy to the track that makes it impossible not to tap your feet or nod your head along with the beat. “I Got My Mojo Working” remains one of the band’s most iconic and memorable songs, and its influence can still be felt in the blues and rock music that followed in its wake.
6. Driftin’ and Driftin’
“Driftin’ and Driftin'” is a soulful and bluesy track by The Paul Butterfield Blues Band. The song is a slow and steady groove that showcases the band’s impressive musicianship, with Butterfield’s harmonica taking center stage. The lyrics speak of a man who is lost and wandering, with no real purpose or direction in life. The melancholy tone of the song perfectly captures the feeling of being adrift, unsure of where one is headed. Butterfield’s powerful and emotive vocals bring an added depth to the song, conveying a sense of sadness and resignation. The band’s instrumentation is tight and perfectly complemented by Mark Naftalin’s piano playing. Overall, “Driftin’ and Driftin'” is a standout track that showcases the band’s ability to create soulful, bluesy music with a poignant message.
7. Love March (Live)
“Love March” is a live performance that showcases the energy and excitement of The Paul Butterfield Blues Band in their prime. The song starts with a driving beat that builds in intensity, highlighted by the wailing harmonica of Paul Butterfield. The rhythm section holds down a funky groove while the guitar solos weave in and out, building to a climax before settling back into the groove. The song captures the spirit of the 1960s and the political activism of the time, with lyrics that encourage unity and love in the face of societal challenges. The live setting adds an extra dimension to the performance, with the band feeding off the energy of the crowd and taking the song to new heights. Overall, “Love March” is a testament to the power of live performance and the undeniable talent of The Paul Butterfield Blues Band.
8. Everything’s Going to Be Alright
“Everything’s Going to Be Alright” is a classic blues song that exudes positivity and optimism. It starts with a slow and steady beat, with the guitar and harmonica gradually building up the momentum. The lyrics express a reassuring message that things will eventually work out, no matter how difficult the situation may be. The singer’s smooth and soulful voice adds a layer of depth and emotion to the song. As the song progresses, the instruments become more intense and the tempo picks up, creating a sense of energy and hope. The harmonica solos in the middle of the song are particularly notable, showcasing the technical skills of the musicians. The song ends on a high note, leaving the listener with a sense of encouragement and confidence. “Everything’s Going to Be Alright” is a timeless classic that captures the essence of the blues, providing a message of hope and comfort that resonates with audiences of all ages.
9. In My Own Dream
“In My Own Dream” is a soulful blues-rock track by The Paul Butterfield Blues Band that showcases the powerful vocals of Paul Butterfield and the electrifying guitar work of Mike Bloomfield. The song has a hauntingly beautiful melody that draws you in, and the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who is struggling to find his place in the world. The band’s dynamic interplay creates a rich and immersive sound that is both raw and polished, and the song’s dynamic shifts between soft and loud add to its emotional impact. The extended guitar solo towards the end of the song is a standout moment that perfectly captures the intensity and emotion of the lyrics. Overall, “In My Own Dream” is a stunning example of the band’s ability to blend blues, rock, and soul into a unique and compelling sound.
10. Screamin’
“Screamin'” is a classic blues-rock track from The Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s self-titled debut album. It features electrifying guitar riffs, a driving rhythm section, and Butterfield’s signature harmonica wails. The song showcases the band’s ability to blend Chicago blues with rock and roll, creating a unique sound that became a major influence on the blues-rock genre. The lyrics depict the passion and intensity of the blues, with lines like “I’m screamin’, I’m screamin’ for my baby, she’s nowhere in sight, but I’m screamin'”. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy make it a standout track on the album and a crowd-pleaser in live performances. “Screamin'” is a testament to The Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s musical prowess and their contribution to the evolution of blues music.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
