Kenny Wayne Shepherd revisits his debut album as he brings his Ledbetter Heights: 30th Anniversary Tour to the Hard Rock Live in Gary.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd was a mere 17 years old when he released his first album, Ledbetter Heights. It went on to achieve Platinum status, which is impressive in anyone’s book. This album not only kick-started his professional career but also clearly put him on the map. Now, 30 years on, Shepherd is celebrating its anniversary on tour, playing the album in its entirety. This means performing songs that haven’t been played live in about 25 years. To prepare for this tour, Shepherd mentioned that many of the songs had to be relearned. In the process of doing this, the band went into the studio and re-recorded an updated version of the album. The new version includes Noah Hunt on vocals, replacing Corey Sterling, who passed away in 2024. The re-recording, complete with a front cover similar to the original but with an updated photo of Shepherd, is set for release on May 8.
For those of you who will be attending shows on this tour, make sure to get yourself there early. There is no opener, just 100% pure, unadulterated Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The Hard Rock Live’s crowd sat in eager anticipation for the show to begin, with one particular hype-man running up the aisle shouting, “Who’s ready to rock?” As Shepherd and the band stepped onto the stage, the cheer that went up from the crowd indicated that everyone was ready to rock.
While this is the anniversary tour for Ledbetter Heights, and it is being performed in its entirety, that is not the full show. They also included a good dose of career highlights. The set kicked off with the instrumental “Ledbetter Heights,” which is incredible to think he originally recorded at just 17 years old, not only because of the undeniable guitar skills, but the amount of blues infused in it for someone of such a tender age is astounding. He’s clearly kept his passion for the genre going 30 years on as he helps bring the blues to younger generations. The longevity of the genre is in safe hands!
The majority of vocals for the evening were provided by long-time collaborator, Noah Hunt. While there were moments when Shepherd would take over singing, the role was predominantly filled by Hunt. Hunt is every bit the rockstar frontman, but knows when to step back to let the guitar maestro take the spotlight. It’s a harmonious combo.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd has tour dates scheduled through until November, so you really have no excuse. Get those tickets today!
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