Rivers was born as John Henry Ramistella in New York City, of Italian ancestry. His family moved from New York to Baton Rouge Louisiana. Influenced by the distinctive Louisiana musical styler, Rivers began playing guitar at age eight, taught by his father and uncle. While still in junior high school, he started sitting in with a band called the Rockers,. Johnny formed his own band, the Spades, and made his first record at 14, while he was a student in High School. Some of their music was recorded on the Suede label as early as 1956. What's amazing to me is that Johnny Rivers had hits in the 50's, 60's, 70's and 80's and remains an important part of the music business not only touring, but as a songwriter and producer too.
You'll hear in this interview with Johnny just what an amazing knowledge of the music industry Johnny has and his ability to remember key names and events in his career is impressive. Add to that the facts he's a great guy and I think you'll agree why I always look forward to interviewing Johnny Rivers.