Powell St. John came to work with Kenneth Threadgill of Austin's Threadgill's Bar, performing with Janis Joplin and Lannie Wiggins in a small trio called The Waller Creek Boys. Later, in answer to a request for material from Tommy Hall of the 13th Floor Elevators, St. John wrote six songs for their two first albums. In the late 60's, Powell formed a blues and rock band with Tracy Nelson named Mother Earth.Some of the most legendary musicians in the world have sung and recorded Powell..s songs, such as Janis Joplin (Bye, Bye Baby), Boz Scaggs (I..ll Forever Sing), Roky Erickson (Right Track Now) & Doug Sahm (You Don..t Know).After a 30 year run of royalties and licensing for film, stage and TV, the Texas Music Hall of Fame inducted Powell in 2005 as part of the South by Southwest Music Conference. Taking advantage of the fact that Powell returned to Austin, several of his fans arranged for him to record a new CD, ..Right Track Now.Powell has fans the world over, including many important and influential music industry professionals, such as Julian Cope from the UK, David Fricke from Rolling Stone magazine, and Bill Bentley, former senior vice president at Warner Brother's Records, all emerging from the woodwork as long time St. John fans:Powell's CD is nothing short of amazing. I've listened about 5 times all the way through, and there are so many highlights I can't start to list them. Over the years his music and songs have given me so much joy. Bill Bentley, Senior Vice President, Warner Brother..s Records.. "I think he is a first-rate harmonica player and I am glad he is still doing it. His songs are some of my favorites!" - Roky Erickson.. ..In the midst of the budding psychedelic sound, Powell's music was unique, completely original and brilliant. He gave us validation as something more than a derivative R&B band and he inspired me to stretch out beyond my desire to be Irma Thomas. I think he was the most significant and profound artist (and by the very nature of that the least appreciated) of the era. I'm so glad he's making music again... - Tracy NelsonThis CD highlights this amazing lyricist, who has a timeless knack for song writing and a unique sense of melody. His music is both original and fully engaging, representing the best of the past and greatness for the future. Contact Toby St. John at 510-575-7127 or email at: [email protected].
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