Jump to content

The J. Geils Band

From Alfawiki
The J. Geils Band
Company typeBand
IndustryMusic
Founded1967 in Worcester, Massachusetts, United States
FounderJohn "J." Geils
Headquarters
Worcester, Massachusetts
,
United States
ProductsMusic albums, live performances

The J. Geils Band—initially known as The J. Geils Blues Band—was an American rock ensemble formed in 1967 in Worcester, Massachusetts, fronted by guitarist John "J." Geils. The group featured vocalist Peter Wolf, multi-instrumentalist Richard "Magic Dick" Salwitz who played harmonica, trumpet, and saxophone, drummer Stephen Bladd, keyboardist and vocalist Seth Justman, and bassist Danny Klein. The principal songwriting duties were handled by Wolf and Justman. Originating with a focus on R&B-infused blues rock, the band evolved into a mainstream new wave act by the early 1980s, marking their peak commercial success.

Their setlist combined reinterpretations of classic blues and R&B tunes with original compositions primarily crafted by Wolf and Justman, alongside collective works credited to the alias Juke Joint Jimmy. After Wolf exited in 1983 to pursue a solo path, the band issued one final album in 1984 featuring Justman and Bladd sharing lead vocal responsibilities before disbanding in 1985. They reunited sporadically from 1999 up until J. Geils’ passing in 2017.

Early on, the band scored several Top 40 hits including their rendition of "Lookin' For A Love" (peaking at No. 39 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1972) and "Give It to Me" (No. 30 in 1973). Their most notable chart successes included "Must of Got Lost" (No. 12 in 1975), "Come Back" (No. 32 in 1980), "Love Stinks" (No. 38 in 1980), "Centerfold" (No. 1 in 1982), and "Freeze-Frame" (No. 4 in 1982).

Early days

The origins of the band trace back to the mid-1960s during John Geils’ time at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, following his transfer from Northeastern University. Initially called Snoopy and the Sopwith Camels, they performed as an acoustic blues trio with Geils on guitar, bassist Danny Klein—nicknamed "Dr. Funk"—and harmonica player Richard Salwitz, known as "Magic Dick".

By 1968, the group transitioned to an electric format, adding drummer Stephen Jo Bladd and vocalist Peter Blankfield—formerly a disc jockey at WBCN—who adopted the stage name Peter Wolf. Drawing inspiration from blues legends such as James Cotton and Little Walter, they rebranded as The J. Geils Blues Band before eventually dropping "Blues" from their name. Keyboardist Seth Justman joined shortly thereafter, helping them establish a devoted following within Boston’s music scene.

After evaluating multiple offers, they secured a contract with Atlantic Records in 1970. Although early live recordings circulated among fans, anticipation grew for an official studio album.

1970s touring, recordings and early top 40 success

Following extensive touring across the United States in support of prominent artists like B. B. King, Johnny Winter, and The Allman Brothers, The J. Geils Band recorded their self-titled debut album, released in November 1970. Their initial single was a rock adaptation of The Contours' "First I Look at the Purse." The subsequent album, The Morning After (October 1971), featured their first entry into the Top 40 with a cover of "Lookin' for a Love." In 1972, they contributed tracks to Buddy Guy & Junior Wells Play the Blues.

Through relentless touring efforts, they cultivated a substantial American fanbase renowned for high-energy performances and Peter Wolf’s charismatic stage presence. Magic Dick’s inventive harmonica playing gained acclaim as groundbreaking within rock circles. Their sound during this era fused elements of R&B, doo-wop, and soul with a swagger reminiscent of The Rolling Stones. In fact, The Allman Brothers named them their favorite local band in 1971; both groups later shared the bill for the final concert at Fillmore East.

Their third album was a live recording titled Full House (1972), which underscored their popularity—particularly in Detroit, regarded as their second hometown due to strong fan support. Additional live albums such as Blow Your Face Out (1976) and Showtime! (1982) were also captured there.

A significant commercial breakthrough arrived with their third studio effort Bloodshot (1973), which reached No. 10 on the Billboard 200 chart and featured the hit single "Give It to Me" that climbed to No. 30. This album became notable for its distinctive red vinyl pressing paired with vintage-style Atlantic Records labels—a design that would become synonymous with their subsequent releases. Its follow-up Ladies Invited (1973) peaked at No. 51 but did not replicate its predecessor’s success.

After extensive touring during early 1974, they released their fifth studio project Nightmares...and Other Tales from the Vinyl Jungle, which included the popular track "Must of Got Lost" reaching No. 12 on charts. That year also saw them performing in major U.S. arenas alongside acts such as the Rolling Stones, Peter Frampton, and Rod Stewart. Despite early achievements and rigorous touring schedules, they were often perceived primarily as a party band until the release of Monkey Island in 1977. Subsequently, they left Atlantic Records for EMI America and released Sanctuary (1978), which attained No. 49 on the Billboard 200 and featured the successful single "One Last Kiss" peaking at No. 35.

1980s commercial success and dissolution

The band achieved their highest commercial success in the early 1980s with the release of the album Love Stinks in January 1980. This album yielded two Top 40 hits: "Come Back," which reached No. 32 on the Billboard charts, and the title track "Love Stinks," which peaked at No. 38. The latter track became a consistent favorite on FM radio throughout the decade and was featured in the 1998 movie The Wedding Singer. Throughout 1980, the band embarked on extensive tours across the United States, Europe, and Japan.

Their next album, Freeze Frame, dominated the charts for four consecutive weeks in early 1982. The lead single "Centerfold" maintained the No. 1 position on the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks and climbed to No. 3 in the UK charts. The album's title track reached No. 4, while "Flamethrower" received significant airplay on urban radio stations and charted on Billboard’s soul and dance listings. The third single, "Angel in Blue," secured a spot at No. 40 on Billboard. Heavy rotation of music videos for both "Centerfold" and "Freeze Frame" on MTV played a crucial role in boosting album sales. In 1982, the band sold out arenas nationwide, supporting U2 on tour before opening for the Rolling Stones during their European dates.

Following this period of success, they released the live album Showtime!, which included their live cover of "I Do"—originally by The Marvelows—that reached No. 24 on the charts.

In 1983, lead singer Peter Wolf departed due to creative disagreements; he later explained that the band was moving toward a pop-techno style that did not suit his artistic preferences.

The band produced one last studio album, You're Gettin' Even While I'm Gettin' Odd, featuring Seth Justman and Stephen Bladd sharing lead vocal duties. The single "Concealed Weapons" peaked at No. 63 on Billboard. After contributing the title song to the horror film Fright Night, the group officially disbanded in 1985.

Reunions, Geils' exit, and final breakup

In 1999, the band reunited with Peter Wolf for a brief tour comprising 13 dates along the East Coast and upper Midwest. Drummer Sim Cain from Rollins Band joined them, accompanied by backup vocalists Andricka Hall and Catherine Russell as well as the Uptown Horns, who had previously toured with them during the Freeze Frame era. After this reunion tour, Wolf resumed performing with his solo band.

On February 26, 2005, with drummer Marty Richards, they came together for a charity concert at the Charles Hotel in Cambridge, Massachusetts, benefiting the Cam Neely Foundation. Later, on May 22, 2006, all six original members made an unexpected appearance at bassist Danny Klein’s 60th birthday celebration in Boston.

The band played the inaugural show at Boston’s new House of Blues on February 19, 2009, featuring Marty Richards on drums and Mitch Chakour providing backup vocals. They followed up with performances at Detroit’s Fillmore Theater and returned to House of Blues for another concert in April.

On July 11, 2009, The J. Geils Band sold out a performance at Atlantic City’s Borgata Hotel/Casino event center. They also reunited for a New Year’s Eve show at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. Early in 2010, they performed at a benefit for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America in Boston and later opened for Aerosmith at Fenway Park that August. Their tours from 2010 to 2012 included support from the Uptown Horns as well as backup singers Mitch Chakour, Andricka Hall, and Nichelle Tillman. During this time, Wolf and Geils pursued individual solo projects while Danny Klein formed Danny Klein's Full House to perform J. Geils Band songs.

In late summer of 2012, the band toured without J. Geils himself; guitarists Duke Levine and Kevin Barry along with drummer Tom Arey replaced him. Geils filed a lawsuit against Richard Salwitz, Danny Klein, Peter Wolf, and Seth Justman over use of the band's name without his involvement; however, his claim was unsuccessful. He permanently exited the group but reportedly held no ill feelings before his passing in 2017.

Despite losing their eponymous guitarist and founder, The J. Geils Band continued performing. On May 30, 2013, they appeared at Boston Strong—a benefit concert held at TD Garden supporting victims of the Boston Marathon bombing—performing six songs. That same year saw them open for Bon Jovi across various U.S. venues. From late 2014 through early 2015, they supported Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band on most North American shows alongside several solo appearances. Their final tour took place during summer 2015 and concluded with a show in Detroit.

Although nominated multiple times—in 2005, 2006, 2011, 2017, and 2018—the band has yet to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Activities beyond the band

Following the group's dissolution in 1985, J. Geils redirected his efforts toward sports car restoration in Massachusetts and established the performance workshop KTR European Motorsports located in Ayer, Massachusetts. In 1992, he collaborated again with Richard "Magic Dick" Salwitz to create Bluestime, which produced two albums: Bluestime (1994) and Little Car Blues (1996), both issued under Rounder Records. Geils took on the role of producer for The Installers' 2004 release Nail It! and has occasionally joined them on stage. Additionally, he has put out multiple jazz records in partnership with Gerry Beaudoin.

Magic Dick has lent his harmonica playing and vocal talents to the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Revue's album Command Performance, touring extensively with the ensemble since 2007, including appearances on Blues Cruises. He also continues to perform as an acoustic duo alongside Shun Ng, with whom he released the EP "About Time."

Peter Wolf embarked on a solo career that achieved moderate success, placing six singles on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 during the 1980s and early 1990s. His discography extends into the 2010s, highlighted by the 2016 album A Cure for Loneliness. Wolf toured with Kid Rock in 2008 and remains actively engaged in live performances with his solo group, the Midnight Travelers.

Band members

  • Seth Justman – keyboards, backing vocals (1968–1985, 1999, 2005, 2006, 2009–2015), lead vocals (1983–1985)
  • Danny Klein – bass guitar (1968–1985, 1999, 2005, 2006, 2009–2015)
  • Magic Dick – harmonica, saxophone, trumpet (1968–1985, 1999, 2005, 2006, 2009–2015)
  • J. Geils – guitar (1968–1985, 1999, 2005, 2006, 2009–2012; deceased 2017)
  • Stephen Jo Bladd – drums, percussion, backing vocals (1968–1985, 2006), lead vocals (1983–1985)
  • Peter Wolf – lead vocals (1968–1983, 1999, 2005, 2006, 2009–2015)

Supporting touring musicians

  • Sim Cain – drums (1999)
  • Catherine Russell – backing vocals (1999)
  • Andricka Hall – backing vocals (1999, 2010–2015)
  • Marty Richards – drums (2005, 2009–2011)
  • Mitch Chakour – backing vocals (2009–2011)
  • Nichelle Tillman – backing vocals (2010, 2012)
  • Duke Levine – rhythm guitar (2009–2011), lead guitar (2012–2015)
  • Kevin Barry – rhythm guitar (2012–2015)
  • Tom Arey – drums (2012–2015)
  • Ada Dyer – backing vocals (2011)
  • Cheryl Freeman – backing vocals (2013–2015)

The Uptown Horns

  • Arno Hecht – tenor saxophone (1982, 1999–2015)
  • Crispin Cioe – alto and baritone saxophones (1982, 1999–2015)
  • Paul Litteral – trumpet (1982)
  • Larry Etkin – trumpet (1999–2015)
  • Bob Funk – trombone (2010)

Chronology

<timeline> ImageSize = width:800 height:auto barincrement:20 PlotArea = left:90 bottom:80 top:0 right:20 Alignbars = justify DateFormat = dd/mm/yyyy Period = from:01/01/1968 till:01/10/2015 TimeAxis = orientation:horizontal format:yyyy Legend = orientation:vertical position:bottom columns:1 ScaleMajor = increment:3 start:1968 ScaleMinor = unit:year increment:1 start:1968

Colors = 

id:Vocals       value:red        legend:Vocals,_percussion
id:Guitar       value:green      legend:Guitar
id:Bass         value:blue       legend:Bass
id:Drums        value:orange     legend:Drums,_percussion,_backing_vocals
id:Keyboards    value:purple     legend:Keyboards,_backing_vocals
id:Harmonica    value:tan2       legend:Harmonica,_saxophone,_trumpet
id:salbums      value:black      legend:Studio_release

BarData = 

bar:Peter    text:Peter Wolf
bar:J        text:J. Geils
bar:Danny    text:Danny Klein
bar:Stephan  text:Stephen Jo Bladd
bar:Seth     text:Seth Justman
bar:Magic    text:Magic Dick

PlotData= 

width:11 textcolor:black align:left anchor:from shift:(10,-4)

bar:Magic from:start      till:01/01/1985 color:harmonica
bar:Magic from:01/01/1999 till:01/01/2000 color:harmonica
bar:Magic from:01/01/2005 till:01/01/2007 color:harmonica
bar:Magic from:01/01/2009 till:end         color:harmonica

bar:Danny from:start      till:01/01/1985 color:bass
bar:Danny from:01/01/1999 till:01/01/2000 color:bass
bar:Danny from:01/01/2005 till:01/01/2007 color:bass
bar:Danny from:01/01/2009 till:end         color:bass

bar:Peter from:start      till:01/01/1983 color:vocals
bar:Peter from:01/01/1999 till:01/01/2000 color:vocals
bar:Peter from:01/01/2005 till:01/01/2007 color:vocals
bar:Peter from:01/01/2009 till:end         color:vocals

bar:Seth from:start      till:01/01/1985 color:keyboards
bar:Seth from:01/01/1983 till:01/01/1985 color:vocals width:3
bar:Seth from:01/01/1999 till:01/01/2000 color:keyboards
bar:Seth from:01/01/2005 till:01/01/2007 color:keyboards
bar:Seth from:01/01/2009 till:end         color:keyboards

bar:J from:start      till:01/01/1985 color:guitar
bar:J from:01/01/1999 till:01/01/2000 color:guitar
bar:J from:01/01/2005 till:01/01/2007 color:guitar
bar:J from:01/01/2009 till:01/08/2012 color:guitar

bar:Stephan from:start      till:01/01/1985 color:drums 
bar:Stephan from:01/01/1983 till:01/01/1985 color:vocals width:3
bar:Stephan from:01/01/2006 till:01/01/2007 color:drums

LineData = 

at:16/11/1970 color:black layer:back
at:02/10/1971 color:black layer:back
at:12/04/1973 color:black layer:back
at:01/11/1973 color:black layer::back
at:25/09/1974 color:black layer::back
at:09/09/1975 color:black layer::back 
at:09/06/1977 color:black layer::back 
at:01/11/1978 color:black layer::back 
at:28/01/1980 color:black layer::back 
at:26/10/1981 color:black layer::back 
at:-05-/10-/1984 c--olor:black la-yer:b-ack

</timeline>

Discography

Studio albums


External links

Retrieved from "https://www.alfawiki.org/index.php?title=The_J._Geils_Band&oldid=86499"