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24th July 2024Widespread Panic has managed to thrive despite having no hit songs and rejecting large label deals, even after losing one founder and experiencing audience decline.
At a Panic show, it can be difficult to feel like an outsider; there are friendly introductions and group chants throughout. But the band has its fair share of detractors.
About the band
Widespread Panic was formed in Athens, Georgia in 1986 by Michael Houser (guitar and vocals), Dave Schools (bass), John “JoJo” Hermann (keyboards) and Domingo Ortiz (percussion). They have often been compared with Grateful Dead and Phish.
Although not having a hit single on MTV or being signed to a major label or appearing on network television, they remain one of America’s best-selling touring acts. Their fans built them an ardent following through relentless touring.
Thirty years on, Panic remains hungry not just for success but to continue pushing the limits of their music and themselves as musicians. Their latest album, Free Somehow, finds them at a crossroads – strengthening their relationship with producer Terry Manning, expanding songwriting ideas into uncharted territory, and feeling fulfilled more than ever before – something which all comes together on stage when fearless musical improvisations capture audiences known as Spreadheads.
Discography
Widespread Panic has been making waves in American rock music since they formed back in 1986, producing several great albums as well as live recordings and compilations since. Here is our selection of some of their finest work over time!
Athens, Georgia-based jam band Phish and Blues Traveler stand apart in that their members balance improvisation with songwriting nimbly; similarly the Athens ensemble comprised of John Bell (guitar and vocals), Dave Schools (bass), Jimmy Herring (lead guitar), JoJo Hermann (keyboards) and Duane Trucks (drums) manages this delicate balance well. Their musical repertoire encompasses Southern rock, blues-rock funk as well as gritty hard rock.
The group boasts an extensive catalogue of studio and live releases that demonstrate their ability to reinvent themselves onstage. Recently, they’ve gone back through their archives in search of vintage performances that demonstrate their ability to improvise while maintaining an even rhythm and melodic flow.
Tours
Widespread Panic has played to sold-out crowds at venues across the United States and beyond since 2007, performing their unique blend of Southern rock, blues-rock, progressive rock and funk music influenced by jam bands like Grateful Dead and Phish.
Widespread Panic was established by drummer Duane Trucks, bassist Dave Schools and guitarist Michael Houser during the mid-’80s in Athens’ Mad Hatter Ballroom for an Africa benefit in 1986. Soon thereafter they added percussionist Domingo Ortiz and keyboard player JoJo Hermann, among others.
The band members take offense at being labeled as a jam band, suggesting an arbitrary approach to playing music. Instead, they abide by a rule where any song played within three nights won’t be included tonight’s show. They create and laminate a master list of songs they intend to perform; before each show they select their set list from this master list while they return back after set breaks to select new tunes to include in it.
Awards
Widespread Panic has cemented their place as one of the premiere bands with an unparalleled fan base and ability to push musical boundaries with every new release, evidenced by sold out concerts at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, attendance records broken at venues including Atlanta’s State Farm Arena and an extensive national tour.
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