Singer, songwriter and guitarist Boz Scaggs will perform his blue-eyed soul and soft rock live in Birmingham on Thursday, Aug. 14, presented by the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center.
William Royce “Boz” Scaggs, with his unique voice and trademark sound, is both a musical seeker and a man of sizable talent. His musical explorations in blues, R&B, rock, and jazz have produced a body of lasting work and a career with acclaim, a loyal following and a place of honor among musicians. Scaggs is set to perform at 8 p.m. in the ASC, 1200 10th Ave. South. Tickets are $74.50, $65.50 and $55.50. Call 205-975-2787 or visit www.AlysStephens.org.
When starting out, Scaggs appeared on childhood friend Steve Miller’s first two albums with the Steve Miller Band. His second solo album, self-titled, featured the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section and session guitarist Duane Allman, in 1969. In 1976, using session musicians who would later form the band Toto, he recorded “Silk Degrees,” which reached No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard 200 and yielded hits including the ultra-cool “Lowdown,” the danceable ’70s anthem “Lido Shuffle” and the standard “We’re All Alone,” later recorded by Rita Coolidge and Frankie Valli. Scaggs garnered many fans with his timeless and moving ballad “Look What You’ve Done to Me,” from the “Urban Cowboy” soundtrack.
The Grammy Award-winning rock legend released his 17th album, “Memphis,” in 2013. A mixture of original songs and classic covers, the album was designed as a nod to family history and American roots music. “Memphis” was recorded with an all-star band, including upcoming ASC artist Keb’ Mo’, Willie Weeks, Steve Jordan, Ray Parker Jr. and Spooner Oldham in the landmark Royal Studio, where countless Hi Records hits were recorded by Al Green, Tina Turner, Chuck Berry, Buddy Guy and others. The album hit No. 1 on Billboard’s blues chart in 2013.
In addition to touring with his own band, Scaggs continues to work with Donald Fagen and Michael McDonald as The Dukes of September, most recently playing a 47-city tour to rave reviews.