What is a legend? ​

According to Webster’s, it is a collection of stories about an admirable person known by tradition, worthy of myth.  Johnny Talbot is truly a legendary musician. He put together a band that created the Oakland funk sound. They introduced funk to Oakland music at a time when there were only jazz organ trios. Although rooted in Texas Blues, their sound was the foundation of the music of artists like Sly & The Family Stone, James Brow, and Tower of Power.

The legend began in Kilgore, Texas. Johnny’s father, a guitar player and minister, migrated with his family to California to work in the shipyards. He joined the Good Samaritan Church of God in Christ.  At this church, Johnny Talbot, Edwin Hawkins, Freddie Hughes, and Walter Hawkins were kids in the band and the choir trying to learn their crafts. This church blessed, nurtured, and provided inspiration for these future musical trendsetters.
The legend continued to grow after high school. Johnny went to Alaska and became an apprentice of blues guitar pioneer, T. Bone Walker. After returning to Oakland and paying his dues in the local clubs, Johnny put together his band, “De Thangs.”

The group proved to be both a solid headliner and versatile backup band. Johnny and his band’s impressive talents caught the attention of the late and renowned promoters Charles Sullivan and rock impresario Bill Graham. With Charles Sullivan, the band toured with James Brown, Little Richard and Aretha Franklin. In between these tours, Johnny also served as guitarist for Bobby “Blue” Bland, Etta James, Big “Mama” Thornton and spent a year as band leader for Marvin Gaye. Johnny Talbot & De Thangs were the only funk band chosen by Graham to play regularly at the Fillmore West. The band worked with Martha & the Vandellas, Jefferson Starship, Jimi Hendrix, Chuck Berry, the Grateful Dead, and Otis Redding , all with promoter Bill Graham.

Johnny Talbot is the Godfather of funk. He is a poet, composer, and song stylist who has been a source of inspiration for countless musicians and entertainers. The band has recorded for Atlantic, Kent, United Artist, Bulleye Blues, and Rhino Records. Johnny Talbot & De Thangs are truly one of America’s unique musical treasures. Enjoy!

​– Shannon Townsend

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Who We Are

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Our History

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