"Jeff 'Skunk' Baxter unexpectedly filled in as James Brown's sideman at a gig due to another musician being stranded in a snowstorm and unable to attend."
Seasoned musician Jeff "Skunk" Baxter, famed for his work with bands such as Steely Dan, The Doobie Brothers, and Spirit, has also collaborated with a plethora of industry heavyweights, including Dolly Parton, Donna Summer, Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, and Gene Simmons. This diverse list of collaborations necessitated a broad playing style, one that ultimately enabled Baxter to join James Brown's tour in 1986.
In a recent interview with our website, Baxter shared that he had already been familiar with Brown's funky guitar parts, having studied and admired the genre. With Bobby and the Midnites on his schedule and an album production for Bob Weir in tow, Baxter found himself stepping in to replace Brown's missing guitarist. Dressed in a suit, he embarked on a memorable tour with the renowned artist.
Asked about the challenges he faced with Brown's guitar parts, Baxter replied that he had no difficulties, as he had long been a fan of the genre and had already mastered the necessary techniques.
Regarding the secret to his success as a prolific guitarist and session player, Baxter reflected that application, perseverance, and exposure to various musical influences were crucial factors. His ability to adapt his playing style to a wide range of musical genres has provided him with numerous opportunities, enriching his color and versatility as a musician.
Additionally, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter recently reminisced about a session with Steely Dan producer Gary Katz, sharing an anecdote about showing up to the studio with a significant amount of gear, only to end up not using any of it. The full interview with Skunk will be published in the coming weeks on our website.
- Jeff "Skunk" Baxter, during the memorable tour with James Brown, had to replace Brown's missing guitarist while dressed in a suit, demonstrating his versatility on the electric guitar.
- With various musical genres under his belt, such as funk, rock, and country, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter, in his prolific career, has found success as a guitarist and session player, attributing his versatility to application, perseverance, and exposure to diverse musical influences.
- In his recent interview with our website, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter discusses his time with Steely Dan's producer, Gary Katz, recalling an anecdote about arriving at the studio equipped with a lot of gear, only to not use any of it, showcasing his adaptability and minimalist approach to music with his electric guitar, amp, and other essential equipment.
