Widespread Panic

Widespread Panic's History

Widespread Panic is an American rock band that was formed in 1986 in Athens, Georgia. The band has been known for their high energy live shows and for incorporating elements of southern rock, blues, funk, and jazz into their music. Widespread Panic has released 12 studio albums and has sold over 3 million records.

Widespread Panic began as a group of friends who would jam together on the weekends. The original members of the band were John Bell (vocals, guitar), Michael Houser (guitar), Dave Schools (bass), Todd Nance (drums), Domingo "Sunny" Ortiz (percussion), and JoJo Hermann (keyboards). The band's name is a nod to Panic, a popular album by the Southern rock band, The Allman Brothers Band.

Widespread Panic played their first official gig in 1987 at the Uptown Lounge in Athens, Georgia. They quickly gained a following in the college town and began playing shows throughout the Southeast. In 1988, the band released their first album, Space Wrangler, which received critical acclaim and helped to establish them as one of the rising stars of the jam band scene.

Throughout the 1990s, Widespread Panic continued to tour relentlessly and released a string of successful albums, including Widespread Panic, Everyday, and Bombs & Butterflies. Their live shows became legendary, with the band often playing for three hours or more and incorporating extended improvisational sections into their songs.

In 2002, the band suffered a tragic loss when founding member Michael Houser passed away due to pancreatic cancer. Despite this setback, Widespread Panic continued to tour and record, recruiting guitarist George McConnell to fill Houser's spot.

Widespread Panic is known for their commitment to live performance, and they have become one of the most successful touring acts in the United States. The band typically plays over 100 shows a year, and their fanbase is fiercely loyal, often following them from city to city.

Widespread Panic's concerts have become legendary for their energy and unpredictability. The band is known for incorporating extended improvisations into their songs, often taking them in completely unexpected directions. Their live shows are a mix of old classics and new material, and the band is constantly experimenting with different sounds and approaches.

If you want to see Widespread Panic live, you're in luck – the band is constantly on tour and tickets are readily available. Fans can purchase tickets online, through ticket brokers, or at the box office on the night of the show. Depending on the venue and the popularity of the show, tickets can range from $40 to $100 or more.

Widespread Panic has become one of the most respected bands in the jam band scene, with a fiercely devoted fanbase and a commitment to live performance. Their concerts are a unique experience, full of energy, improvisation, and surprises. If you're a fan of live music, Widespread Panic is a band that you won't want to miss.

More About Widespread Panic

"Chilly Water"

From the band's debut album, "Space Wrangler," "Chilly Water" has become a staple of the Widespread Panic live experience. With its infectious groove and soaring guitar riffs, the song is a perfect showcase for lead guitarist Jimmy Herring's virtuosic playing. Fans can't resist the urge to dance along to the song's catchy chorus and pulsating rhythms, making it a highlight of any Widespread Panic concert.

"Ain't Life Grand"

A rousing anthem that celebrates the joys and challenges of being alive, "Ain't Life Grand" has been a fan favorite since its release on the album of the same name in 1994. The song's catchy melody and uplifting lyrics have made it a staple of Widespread Panic's live shows, inspiring sing-alongs and positive vibes among fans and band members alike.

"Porch Song"

Another classic from "Space Wrangler," "Porch Song" is a slow-burning blues number that showcases frontman John Bell's soulful vocals and the band's tight, improvisational playing. The song's melancholy lyrics and haunting guitar riffs create a haunting atmosphere that can be both introspective and uplifting, making it a fan favorite at both intimate club shows and festival stages.

"Tall Boy"

Released on the band's sixth studio album, "Bombs & Butterflies," "Tall Boy" has become a signature song for Widespread Panic. The song's driving rhythm and catchy chorus create an undeniable energy that gets fans up and dancing, while the wistful lyrics about a past romance add a touch of nostalgia and heart to the mix.

"Red Hot Mama"

Originally recorded by funk legends Funkadelic, Widespread Panic's cover of "Red Hot Mama" has become a highlight of the band's live shows. With its funky bassline, soaring guitar solos, and explosive horn section, the song is a celebration of all things groovy and danceable. Fans can't resist the urge to shake their groove things when the band launches into this classic tune.

These are just a few of Widespread Panic's most popular live songs, but the band's expansive catalog and dynamic playing ensure that every show is a unique and unforgettable experience. With tickets to Widespread Panic's live shows always in high demand, fans should act fast to secure their seats for one of the most exciting and electrifying concert experiences around. From intimate club shows to massive festival stages, Widespread Panic always delivers a high-energy, unforgettable performance that keeps fans coming back for more.