The pandemic led Joe Bonamassa into uncharted territory.
Like many artists, he still concentrated on his craft, but when it came time to record “Time Clocks,” the blues performer was in one country while his producer was in another. Their only contact was through Zoom.
“It tested people’s creativity,” said Bonamassa, who will be at the Bell Auditorium Feb. 28.
But it’s not something he’d like to try again.
“I shudder at the thought,” he said.
Despite the challenges associated with the pandemic and its related restrictions, “Time Clocks” became his 25th #1 album and was voted Blues Rock Review’s #1 album in 2021. In all, Bonamassa has released 40 albums.
The three-time Grammy-nominated blues musician opened for legendary blues performer B.B. King when Bonamassa was only 12. He played alongside other performers including Eric Clapton, Stephen Stills, John Lee Hooker, Warren Haynes, Steve Winwood, Peter Frampton and Buddy Guy.
[adrotate banner=”72″]
Others saw his potential at a young age, and he believes in investing in other young people.
His Keeping the Blues Alive Foundation has a mission of providing music resources to schools in need.
“There’s power in putting a guitar in someone’s hand and putting hard work behind it,” said Bonamassa, who “Guitar World Magazine” called “the world’s biggest blues guitarist.”
During the pandemic, he expanded his philanthropic endeavors by raising money to help touring musicians who were unable to work because of restrictions on live performances. He’s raised more than $475,000 with that effort and has helped more than 300 artists
The foundation has raised more than $1.5 million in its history.
“I see it as paying it forward,” said Bonamassa of his endeavors to help other musicians.
Last year, Bonamassa was able to perform about 50 concert dates, and he said he’s looking forward to visiting Augusta, a city he hasn’t performed in in several years.
“We’re just getting started this year,” he said. “We have about three different sets we are playing.”
Which of those sets he’ll play in Augusta, he’s not sure yet, but he said it’s sure to blend some fan favorites with some of his new material.
The concert will begin at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $59. For tickets visit aectix.com.
Charmain Z. Brackett is the managing editor for The Augusta Press. Reach her at charmain@theaugustapress.com
