John McVey Band – STLBluesTALENT

The John McVey Band

A veteran of Texas Blues

John McVey

Reviews

"Toughest guitar player in Texas"

Real Blues Magazine

“I had the honor of working with John on his newest CD, Meet Me In Houston - a fiery, deeply soulful, and hauntingly beautiful testament to John’s masterful Blues-writing and guitar-playing talent.” “Each song reveals a story – some funny, others raw and gritty, and a few that may make you tearful. Just when the last beautiful song is coming to a close, and you are hoping it never ends, John throws in a little surprise.”

Andrew Reed

Producer

RFT article on John McVey

“Why Bluesman John McVey Left Texas”
– Riverfront Times

Discography

John released his debut album ‘Gone To Texas’ in 2002 featuring Kim Wilson, Joel Guzman, Larry Fulcher, Frosty and Mike Buck. John McVey and the Stumble then recorded Erin Jaimes’ debut album ‘You Had to Go’ in 2004. John’s second CD, ‘Road House Stomp’, was recorded at Dan Electro’s in Houston and released in 2009.

Bio

John McVey is a veteran of Texas Blues, who created his signature tone and earned his aggressive guitar chops as a member of touring bands on the Chitlin’ Circuit. He was mentored by Blues legends Larry Davis and Albert King. With no effects pedals, his ‘singing guitar’ emotes heart-rending bends and smooth runs as well as bold chording that has led many, including the legendary ‘Uncle’ John Turner, to call McVey ‘the best rhythm guitar player around.’

His musical resume includes world-wide performances with Hook Herrera & the Hitchhikers and Paul Orta & the Kingpins. After a very profitable Miller Genuine Draft Light television spot, John joined the Lavelle White Band in ATX as guitarist and band leader. With Lavelle, he played the major festival circuit for several years on shows with Luther Allison, John Lee Hooker and more.

John currently lives and performs in the St. Louis, Missouri / Southern Illinois area with his band which includes legendary bass player Mike Graham and and the mighty Rob Lee on drums.

Video

Gary Clark Jr. on John McVey

“So when did you become a student of the blues?”

"Probably around 8th grade or so. That's when I got into it. But I was listening to pop and hip-hop and all that stuff, too. Whatever was on the radio, if it was good, I liked it. But I went to a blues jam around this time, and I really loved it. I was hooked. I heard this guy John McVey play a song, San Jose by Freddie King, and my head just went off."