Few bands have had a musical journey as deep and enduring as the Climax Blues Band. Beginning in the late '60s as an English blues outfit we evolved into a rich, genre-defying force that has covered more than half a century. Grounded by our roots in blues, jazz, funk, and old rock, we not only survived — we thrived.
As we commemorate nearly 60 years of music, live shows, and heritage, here's a throwback to the key milestones that shaped our history.
🎸 1967–1970: The Early Days
We initially formed in Stafford, England in 1967 as The Climax Chicago Blues Band, a tribute to our then American blues idols. The initial lineup was:
Colin Cooper (vocals/sax)
Pete Haycock (guitar)
Derek Holt (bass)
Richard Jones (keyboards)
George Newsome (drums)
The music soon began to move away from straight blues, as the band introduced elements of jazz and rock — all hallmarks of our style.
💿 1976: “Couldn’t Get It Right” Becomes a Smash Hit
No look back would be complete without discussion of our largest chart hit:
"Couldn't Get It Right" — a chic, hip blues track that hit number #3 on the UK Singles Chart and #3 on U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in 1976. The tight rhythm, catchy riff, and soulful vocals made it an instant classic.
It became a calling card moment that brought the band into the global limelight, earning us widespread acclaim, especially all across the U.S.
🛣️ 1980s: Lineup Changes and Evolution
Over the years, the band experienced a series of lineup changes. Notably, founding guitarist Pete Haycock left in the early '80s, and later, Derek Holt left. Climax Blues Band still continued, touring and recording music with a revolving door of skilled musicians under Colin Cooper's direction.
💔 2008: The Passing of Colin Cooper
In 2008, the world lost Colin Cooper, band founder, lead singer, and heart of the band. His energy and devotion kept the band alive through all the changes in music across the decades. His last wish? That the band would continue — and continue it did.
🔄 A New Chapter
In the spirit of Colin Cooper’s wish, the Climax Blues Band has continued with a new energy and over the last 15 years has been building towards the current lineup:
Scott Ralph (vocals)
Chris (Beebe) Aldridge (sax)
George Glover (keys)
Roy Adams (drums)
Neil Simpson (bass)
Dan Machin (guitar)
Our sound continues to blend blues roots with contemporary style, and fans still turn out in large numbers for live performances.
👕 Celebrating the Legacy with Official Merch
To honor more than 50 years of music, we’ve created official Climax Blues Band merchandise that nods to the legacy — classic logo tees, retro designs, and timeless style.
🕰️ The Journey Continues
With 50+ years of touring, recording, and evolving, the Climax Blues Band is more than a band — it's a musical journey spanning generations. Whether you discovered us in the '70s or just last week, there's never been a better time to revisit our music, see usm live, and wear the legacy with pride.
Here’s to the next chapter. 🎶
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