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An English blues-rock institution, Savoy Brown never achieved as much success in their homeland as they did in America, where they promoted career-making albums like Looking In and Hellbound Train with nonstop touring. Led by guitarist and sole constant member Kim Simmonds, the band were at the fore of the 1960s and ’70s blues-rock movement. With Simmonds at the helm, Savoy Brown remained remarkably prolific over the decades, touring the world and recording and issuing new material on an almost yearly basis. In 2020, they released Ain’t Done Yet, their 40th long-player.
The group was formed in 1965 by guitarist Kim Simmonds and harmonica player John O’Leary The orignal crew appeared on the band’s 1967 debut, Shake Down a collection of blues covers. Seeking a different approach, Simmonds dissolved the group and brought in a whole new lineup that included a distinctive frontman with his vocal abilities, bowler hat, and monocle.
Changing Lineups
With perhaps their strongest lineup, Savoy Brown quickly made a name for themselves, recording originals like “Train to Nowhere.” However, Youlden left the band in 1970 following Raw Sienna, and shortly thereafter, Peverett, Earl, and new bassist Tony Stevens departed to form Foghat, continuing the pattern of consistent membership turnover. Simmonds collected yet another lineup and began a hectic tour of America, showcasing the group’s now-refined bluesy boogie-rock style, which dominated the rest of their albums. The band briefly broke up in 1973, but re-formed the following year.
The Definitive British Blues Rock Band
Throughout the ’80s and ’90s Simmonds remained undeterred by a revolving-door membership and continued to tour and record. Savoy Brown’s first album for the Blind Pig label, Strange Dreams, was released in 2003, followed by Steel in 2007. Subsequent LPs include the compilation Too Much of a Good Thing, Voodoo Moon, Goin’ to the Delta, and 2015’s The Devil to Pay.
The Legacy of Kim Simmonds
In 2017, the band returned with the full-length Witchy Feelin’, which hit number one on the Billboard Blues Albums chart. Buoyed by that success, Simmonds and Savoy Brown returned with the group’s 40th career album, Ain’t Done Yet, in 2020, with the concert LP Taking the Blues Back Home arriving later that year. Leader and founder Kim Simmonds died on December 13, 2022 while in treatment for colon cancer; he was 75 years old.
Savoy Brown’s discography is a testament to their enduring influence. Albums like “Shake Down,” “Blue Matter,” and “Street Corner Talking” showcased the band’s exceptional songwriting and instrumentals. These releases garnered critical acclaim and cemented Savoy Brown’s status as a powerhouse in the blues rock genre. Optimizing their albums for SEO allows enthusiasts to easily discover and appreciate their musical journey.
Throughout their career, Savoy Brown achieved several milestones that left an indelible mark on the music industry. Their electrifying live performances captivated audiences worldwide, contributing to the band’s reputation as a must-see act. As you explore their legacy, you’ll uncover how Savoy Brown’s influence extended beyond their contemporaries, inspiring generations of musicians to embrace the blues rock fusion they pioneered. To learn more about the band head for their website https://savoybrown.com/biography/
This Post Has One Comment
Kim Simmonds should be in the damn HOF .
He belongs in the same rarefied air as Peter Green & Alvin Lee , a true British Blues legend . R. I. P.
Listen to his live performance of Louisiana Blues & his great explosive guitar work on : Leaving Again & his tasty styling on : Ring in Her Nose ,