Tonight’s Live Nuggets feature is a legendary performance by one of the greatest guitarists of all time — Stevie Ray Vaughan. Live at Montreux 1985 captures the raw energy and unparalleled virtuosity of Vaughan during his breakthrough years. The show, recorded at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, is a must-watch for fans of blues and rock alike, showcasing Vaughan’s signature style and his mastery of the guitar.
A Turning Point for Stevie Ray Vaughan
In 1985, Stevie Ray Vaughan was still in the early stages of his career, but he was already beginning to gain recognition as a guitar prodigy. His performance at Montreux marked a pivotal moment in his rise to stardom. Just a year earlier, Vaughan had released his debut album, Texas Flood, which quickly became a critical and commercial success. The Montreux performance, which was broadcasted and recorded for live albums, shows him in his prime — his playing smooth yet fiery, his voice soulful and filled with raw emotion.
The show features Vaughan with his band, Double Trouble, consisting of drummer Chris Layton, bassist Tommy Shannon, and keyboardist Reese Wynans. Together, they create an electrifying mix of blues, rock, and funk that has become the hallmark of Vaughan’s music.
A Set List for the Ages
The setlist for Live at Montreux 1985 includes some of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s most beloved tracks, each delivered with the intensity and passion that made him famous. Expect to hear renditions of:
- “Pride and Joy” – A Texas blues anthem that became one of Vaughan’s signature songs, this track exemplifies his virtuosity and raw emotional delivery.
- “Love Struck Baby” – Another favorite from Texas Flood, this track demonstrates Vaughan’s ability to blend blues with fast-paced rock energy.
- “Texas Flood” – A slow-burning, emotional blues number, Texas Flood showcases Vaughan’s ability to wring every bit of feeling out of his guitar.
- “Voodoo Chile (Slight Return)” – Vaughan’s rendition of this Jimi Hendrix classic is nothing short of electrifying. His take on the song is a tribute to his idol, and his guitar work is as fiery and expressive as Hendrix himself.
Each song features Vaughan’s exceptional guitar work, from his stunning bends and lightning-fast runs to his deep, soulful vibrato. His fretboard mastery is matched only by his ability to deliver raw emotion through his music. The performance is an immersive experience that transports the viewer into the heart of Vaughan’s world.
The Legacy of Live at Montreux 1985
Stevie Ray Vaughan’s Live at Montreux 1985 remains a landmark recording in the world of live music. It captures Vaughan at the height of his powers, playing with his bandmates in front of an enthusiastic crowd that recognized they were witnessing greatness. For those who weren’t able to attend that iconic performance, the live album and video provide a window into the magic of that night.
For Vaughan’s fans, it’s a chance to witness the raw intensity and incredible skill that made him a guitar legend. For new listeners, it’s an essential introduction to one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Regardless of whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time listener, Live at Montreux 1985 offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s unmatched talent.
Don’t miss tonight’s Live Nuggets feature — an unforgettable journey into the world of one of the greatest guitarists to ever live.