Chuck Berry

Chuck Berry is a true rock and roll legend and innovator. Even at his advanced age, Berry remains dedicated to his craft, still playing occasional shows, even playing a few with his son on second guitar.

Berry was not only a musical innovator. He also patented several stage moves, which might pale in comparison to what bands would do decades later, but were quite enthralling for their time, including his famous “duck walk”.

Berry’s age means he might not be able to pull it off as frequently as he used to be able to, but he still gives it a good effort at least once during his shows. Most of the audience at his shows are older people, as many younger people are not aware of who Berry is, or probably unsure if he is still touring, or even alive!

Berry was not particularly active in writing new songs for most of his career, meaning that most of the songs he plays are his 50’s songs, many of which have become rock and roll “standards”. These include classics like “Maybellene” and “Johnny B. Goode”.

Even if you are not a fan of Berry’s relatively simple, straightforward songs, you at least have to acknowledge him as a major historical figure, and should definitely consider seeing him while he is still physically able to perform.

My first ever gig was seeing Chuck at Paignton Festival Hall in 1976.
I believe it was on Bank Holiday Monday, 31st May 1976.
We happened to be staying in the area over that week-end !
Can anyone confirm this please ?