A blues and folk musician known for his soulful voice and masterful guitar playing, leading the 1960s folk-rock band Blues Project.
Danny Kalb, the celebrated American blues guitarist and vocalist, is best known for his work as an original member of the 1960s group the Blues Project. As a protégé of Dave Van Ronk, Kalb's unique blend of acoustic and electronic music helped shape the landscape of blues and folk in the 1960s.
Born on September 9, 1942, Kalb began his musical journey at the tender age of 15, forming the band Gay Notes and performing with Bob Dylan on a WBAI-FM concert broadcast in 1961. This early exposure to the folk scene led to his involvement with Dave Van Ronk's Ragtime Jug Stompers in 1963.
In 1965, Kalb co-founded the Blues Project with Steve Katz, Andy Kulberg, Roy Blumenfeld, and Tommy Flanders. This iconic group recorded three albums, frequently performed at the Cafe Au Go Go, and made several concert tours before disbanding in 1971. One of their most notable performances was an 11-minute rendition of Muddy Waters' "Two Trains Running" in electronic form, with Waters himself in the audience.
Kalb's session work included playing second guitar on Phil Ochs' album "All the News That's Fit to Sing" in 1964 and appearing on Judy Collins' "Fifth Album" the same year. He also formed the New Strangers with blues ethnomusicologist Sam Charters, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and innovative musician.
Danny Kalb's contributions to the blues and folk genres have been immense. His experimental approach to music, blending acoustic and electronic elements, inspired a generation of musicians. Kalb's work with the Blues Project and his collaborations with other notable artists have left an indelible mark on the music world.
"If I'd dropped dead at that point on the spot because of what we thought of Muddy Waters, then my life would have been well spent." - Danny Kalb, on Muddy Waters' reaction to the Blues Project's performance of "Two Trains Running"
Danny Kalb's life and career serve as a testament to the power of innovation and creativity in music. As a pivotal figure in the 1960s blues and folk scene, his influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians who followed in his footsteps.
Danny Kalb passed away on November 19, 2022, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire and delight audiences to this day.
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