Blues guitarist Buddy Guy returns to Phillips

April 9, 2012

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Five-time Grammy Award-winning blues legend Buddy Guy returns to the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at 7:30 p.m. April 21.

Guy continues to bolster his legendary reputation. He has the most W.C. Handy Blues Awards (23) in history, is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, was awarded the Presidential National Medal of Arts, earned the Billboard Magazine Century Award for distinguished artistic achievement and was ranked among the top 30 of Rolling Stone Magazine’s “100 Greatest Guitarists of all Time.”

“Buddy Guy is one of the most authentic interpreters of the blues living and concertizing today,” UFPA director Michael Blachly said. “He’s a consummate blues artist that makes the concert experience rewarding for all – a true master of the blues guitar and vocal style.”

With each passing decade, Guy continues to evolve as a guitarist and songwriter. As part of this performance, Guy will perform material from his latest, highest-charting album to date, “Living Proof,” as he sheds light on his historical past and the everlasting mark he’s made on the music industry for nearly 60 years.

Cracker The Box, featuring Anthony Kavouklis will open for Guy at 7:30 p.m.

In 2006, Kavouklis, then 10, was invited on stage during Guy’s concert at the Phillips Center. Kavouklis’ guitar playing impressed the crowd and Guy so much that he was invited to return as part of the opening act for Guy’s April performance.

Cracker The Box is composed of Glenn Moody and Don Blitch, both of whom have been performing in Gainesville and touring since the 1970s.

Tickets are on sale and available for this performance. Call 352-392-ARTS (2787) or 800-905-ARTS (toll free within Florida), or visit www.performingarts.ufl.edu for more information.