My Old Pal, David Gogo

Are you a fan of blues guitar, storytelling, and the highs and lows of a life on the road? If so, this post is for you. I recently sat down with David Gogo, one of Canada's most respected blues artists, whose stories span decades of musical experience, wild adventures, and heartfelt insights. From legendary moments with Johnny Winter to candid reflections on aging, fame, and family, David offers a rare peek into the world of a seasoned musician.

In this article, you'll learn about the life of a bluesman, the reality behind legendary guitarists, the importance of authenticity in music, and many hilarious and touching stories from the front lines of a career that’s been as colorful as his guitars. Whether you're a musician, a fan, or just curious about the real stories behind the music, this conversation will entertain and inspire you.

Get ready to dive into the blues – raw, genuine, and full of life.

The Road Less Traveled: Johnny Winter, Motorhomes, and Peculiar Tour Stories

David Gogo's journey with blues legends is nothing short of legendary. He shares memories of touring with Johnny Winter, vividly describing the unique "Winnebago" that served as Johnny’s green room—an environment that was as much about comfort as eccentricity

Johnny Winter’s Motorhome and Peculiarities

David recalls riding with Johnny Winter in his motorhome, highlighting the singer’s odd yet endearing habits—like adjusting to Eastern time to fit his mood or his peculiar diet schedules. Johnny, being albino and legally blind, preferred a familiar touring environment; the motorhome was a sanctuary that made his grueling schedule manageable.

"[Johnny] had all sorts of peccadilloes about exactly what time he had to eat. He'd always live on Eastern time, like New York state time," David explains. His management recognized Johnny’s quirks and worked to get him the respect he deserved, especially as his career winding down.

First Encounters and Hero Worship

Meeting Johnny Winter for the first time was a surreal moment for David—one of his musical heroes. He describes being awestruck by Johnny’s history—playing Woodstock, producing records for Muddy Waters, and jamming with Jimi Hendrix. These stories illuminate the depth of Johnny’s impact on blues and rock.

Their Shared Experiences and the Touring Life

David details the grind of touring, the challenges of health and substance use, and the adjustments musicians make to stay sane and perform at their best. He talks candidly about Johnny’s struggles with addiction—methadone routines and the transition away from drugs—highlighting the human side of these rock legends often obscured by their superstar image.

The Evolution of Blues Legends: Aging Gracefully and Staying Relevant

The conversation naturally flows into reflections on veteran blues artists like Buddy Guy, BB King, and Dicky Betts. David admires how these giants continue to perform at a high level, defying age and expectations.

Scenes from Legendary Performances

Having watched Buddy Guy in both early and recent years, David affirm what many fans already know—that these artists carry an incredible energy well into old age. His stories from Buddy’s Chicago homecoming, and BB King’s final days, reveal the deep respect and personal connection he has with these musical icons.

"[Buddy Guy's] still in there, still kicking ass and taking names," David says proudly, emphasizing that age is just a number when it comes to blues.

Lessons from the Past

David draws lessons from these legends, particularly the importance of humility, resilience, and taking care of oneself. Reflecting on Stevie Ray Vaughan, he personalizes his own struggles with addiction, underscoring how even the most talented artists face demons but can also find redemption.

Recording the Authentic Way: From Vintage Guitars to Living the Music

One of the most captivating sections is David’s description of making his recent album, "Yeah", in Ontario, with a minimalist, vintage approach. He highlights the benefits of recording in an old farmhouse, surrounded by guitars, pianos, and drums, with everything straight into amps—no pedals, just raw sound.

Traveling Light for Inspiration

David packed one guitar—his old Sticker Stratocaster—and relied on the studio’s collection of vintage instruments to craft the perfect tones. The spontaneity of switching guitars from a 1958 Martin to a 70s Les Paul gave the album fresh energy and authenticity.

“It was like a kid in a candy store,” he recalls, playing with different guitars to capture the right vibe for each song.

The Power of Living the Music

He emphasizes that the songs are more than just recorded tracks—they are reflections of his life at that moment. His approach to songwriting and recording prioritizes emotion and realness over lengthy, bloated albums.