Little Feat continues to blend rock, blues and Americana after more than five decades

For more than 50 years, Little Feat has occupied a unique place in American music, blending rock, blues, country, funk, jazz and New Orleans rhythms into its unique sound.

The band will play at the I BAR in Gunnison on Aug. 16 at 7:30 pm.

The band was founded in Los Angeles in the late 1960s by guitarist, singer, and songwriter Lowell George, who had previously been a member of Frank Zappa's Mothers of Invention, and keyboardist Bill Payne.

Little Feat released its self-titled debut album in 1971, but later recordings such as “Sailin' Shoes” (1972), “Dixie Chicken” (1973), “Feats Don't Fail Me Now (1974), and The Last Record Album (1975) established the group's reputation. Songs including "Dixie Chicken," "Willin',"

In an interview with the Gunnison Country Times, guitarist Fred Tackett said he began his association with the band in the late 1970s when he co-wrote songs with George," I started as an auxiliary infielder," Tackett noted. He also plays mandolin and trumpet, performing all three during a show.

Tackett has played and recorded with notable artists including Bob Dylan and Jimmy Webb.

"Back in the day there was this rehearsal hall called the Alley in Los Angeles, and there was a vending machine where you could buy a beer for a nickel. It was very popular."

The band's momentum was interrupted in 1979 following the death of George at age 34. His passing brought the original era of Little Feat to an end, and the group disbanded shortly afterward.

"In 1988 we were making Let It Roll, and that is when I officially got on the bus," said Tackett, who has been with the band ever since.

The re-formed band continued touring, recording new material and introducing its music to younger audiences. Payne has remained the musical anchor through numerous lineup changes.

Little Feat has long been celebrated for its live performances, where extended improvisation and a willingness to explore different musical styles have made every concert unique. The band's concerts often feature a mix of favorites alongside newer compositions, appealing to longtime fans and newcomers alike.

More than five decades after its formation, Little Feat continues to tour and record, demonstrating the longevity of a band whose music has transcended changing trends. Last year, Little Feat released Strike Up the Band, which includes member and drummer Tony Leone. The band performs 50-60 shows a year.

Leone said in 2020, Payne asked him to join the band. "I've known the guys for a long time, and I jumped at the opportunity. I’ve heard their music since I was 12 or 13."

According to Leone, "I went to a lot of Grateful Dead shows between 1984 and 1990; they had a big influence on me. During that time, I was serious about listening to jazz and people like Miles Davis and John Coltrain, Art Blakey and Charlie Parker.

"It has been one of the privileges and joys of my life as a musician to be a part of a band whose music I have loved for so long."

Tackett added, "We are looking forward to playing in Colorado and hope everyone comes on out for some fun. In these times, it is great to enjoy and lose yourself in music."