J.J. Cale Guitar Player and Songwriter

J.J. Cale

Back in the “old days” when Eric Clapton was one of the, if not the biggest names going on in the guitar players world, J.J. Cale AKA John W. Cale, born on December 5th, 1938 was an unsung song writing guitar player. His birthplace was in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

He is a Grammy Award winner, having written two songs Eric Clapton made famous, “Cocaine” and “After Midnight”. Bring back a few memories? He also wrote a couple of big time hits for the Lynyrd Skynyrd Band, “Call Me the Breeze” and ” I Got the Same Old Blues”. “The Road to Escondido”, by Eric Clapton and J.J. Cale won “Best Contemporary Blues Album” at the 50th Grammy Awards in 2008.

It seems that J.J. Cale has never hurried anything in his life. Cale is also well known for his lack of interest in stardom, constant touring, and even continual recording. He has happily remained a relatively obscure cult artist for the last 35 years.

The Okie has made a career out of endless 12 bar shuffle rhythms, extremely laid-back vocals and wandering solos that caught the ears of Clapton, Skynyrd and Band of Horses.

“Roll On,” is J.J.Cale’s first solo album in 5 years. He recorded it in his home studio using a drum playing machine, playing his piano and bass guitar and then putting it all together.

Enjoy these videos, I’m sure you will recognize the tunes. Even though J.J. chose to remain obscure, his work is well known through other great bands. He can not hide the fact that he is a songwriting, guitar playing genius. He has made 26 Albums since 1958 and has written countless songs covered by other artists, all listed here.

Just another great guitarist songwriter trying to fly under the radar? Only by choice, once you learn more about J.J. Cale at the above link, like GuitarPlayersCenter this man will bring back memories and make you life a bit richer. Enjoy.

Recognize these songs?