I first became acquainted with Robben Ford’s music when I was on the radio in Orlando, at WMMO, in the 90's. Cary Pall was the Program Director and he was a musical wizard with his ear to the ground. I learned a lot from him about seeing one’s way to the heart of the music. In essence, his approach to programming radio was akin to painting a room with sounds for the radio audience to “live in.” The year was 1992, the album was Robben Ford & The Blue Line, and particularly noteworthy, was his cover of John Hiatt’s “I’m a Real Man.” It soared and shook with color, sexuality, and confidence. I have been watching and listening to Robben ever since.
Photo Credit: George WellsHis is a versatile and interesting career, which included stints with the likes of Joni Mitchell to Kiss to Miles Davis. Now who does that? Interesting, that Miles is quoted as saying,"It’s not the notes you play, it’s the notes you don’t play.” Robben Ford embodies that. He is ever elegant in his vocal delivery and in licks. Well, hell, you’ll see here.
Music Fog was honored to film Robben Ford in January of 2016 during a private session at 3rd & Lindsley Backstage in Nashville. He performed “Rose of Sharon," which you can find on his 2015 album, Into The Sun. Here is the Music Fog recording...enjoy.
- Jessie Scott