This version of Bobby Troup’s “Route 66,” performed by the 1970s pub rock band The Count Bishops, is aces.
However, I wish the video maker would have limited the double- and triple-vision effects to a few seconds, instead of the whole video. It looks like the Mother Road after a five-day bender. Sigh.
I reckon this is the closest we will ever get to Chuck Berry doing the song!
Well, not necessarily, if you’re willing to travel.
Chuck Berry has played every month at Blueberry Hill in St. Louis for years. In fact, there is a show coming up on Dec. 12, and yes, you can order tickets at this site:
https://www.blueberryhill.com/events/
I dunno if Chuck does “Route 66” at his shows, but I haven’t seen him since the “Cars” movie came out. It wouldn’t surprise me if he does.
It’s really worth seeing Chuck in a small-club setting. Ticket prices always have been reasonable. Admittedly, he’s been known to be indifferent if he’s having a bad day. But if he’s having a good day, he’s fantastic. And I’ve been fortunate enough to see him jam with his longtime pianist, Johnnie Johnson, several times before he passed away a few years ago.
A few weeks ago, Tom Marker on his WXRT Bluesbreakers Show in Chicago did a three-song feature artist bit on Johnnie Johnson. It streams at 9 PM CST. He plays great stuff and is very knowledgeable.
Thanks for reminding me about Chuck Berry playing in St. Louis. I need to see him before it’s too late.
I have to rank this version of “Route 66” right up there with that of Asleep at the Wheel. I didn’t take your advice and watched the video. Sure wish I’d listened to you.