Date/Time Sun 10 Feb 2013 7:45 PM

Price

Website: http://www.wizzjones.com

Wizz began his musical career at the age of 18 leading a Country and Skiffle band called “The Wranglers” in his home town of Croydon. He had been inspired to take up the acoustic guitar after hearing such guitar luminaries as Big Bill Broonzy, Rambling Jack Elliot and Muddy Waters playing at a club in London. Having learned most of his blues licks from Long John Baldry and Davy Graham whilst playing in the coffee bars of Soho, Wizz followed the time honoured trail – busking throughout Europe with many different musicians including a budding young bluesman named Rod Stewart.

On returning to Britain Wizz formed a bluegrass duo with banjo-picker Pete Stanley. Wizz and Pete went their separate ways at the end of 1967 and Wizz returned to solo work. He enjoyed considerable success throughout the 70’s In Europe and Scandinavia both as a touring soloist and together with his wife Sandy in the group “Lazy Farmer”. In spite of being often mentioned as an important early influence by artists such as Eric Clapton, John Renbourn and Ralph McTell, Wizz retained a certain “musician’s musician” reputation. He started working with son Simeon (Sax, Harmonica and Flute).and by the 90’s Wizz began to enjoy a bit of a come-back.

More recordings followed which led to Wizz’s first trip to America and later on an appearance in the documentary film “The Ballad Of Rambling Jack Elliot” and even a gig in New York with Thurston Moore (Sonic Youth!). 2006 saw the release of a new DVD featuring Wizz and Simeon playing and talking to Martin Carthy.

With his unique guitar style, an eclectic repertoire and “a right hand worthy of Broonzy” Wizz continues to tour on the acoustic folk and blues circuit.