STEVE MILLER CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE JOKER
Steve Miller’s iconic eighth studio album, “The Joker,” has reached its monumental 50th anniversary. To commemorate this golden jubilee, Miller is releasing a lavish box set, titled “J50: The Evolution of The Joker,” that is sure to enthrall fans old and new.
The Box Set: A Trove of Unreleased Gems
Crafted under Miller’s watchful eye, the box set is a sonic journey, transporting listeners through the creative ebb and flow that birthed “The Joker.” Here, they can expect to hear Miller’s original tracks interspersed with a staggering 27 never-before-heard recordings and a sprinkling of audio commentary by Miller himself.
The real gems of this collection are the eight previously unreleased tracks that give a rare insight into Miller’s songwriting prowess. Also, let’s not overlook the exclusive liner notes contributed by both Miller and renowned journalist, Anthony DeCurtis.
Collector’s Editions: Vinyl Fans Are Going to Love This
Available on September 15, 2023, via Universal, this anthology is offered in multiple formats. However, the limited-edition 3xLP + 7” vinyl set is the standout. True to its vintage roots, it comes bundled with a reproduction of the original “The Joker” iron-on and a limited-edition lithograph. It’s a tangible trip down memory lane and an absolute must-have for vinyl aficionados. And for those keen on reserving their copy, pre-orders are already open.
Spotlight on “The Joker Suite”
Central to the box set is “The Joker Suite,” an elaborate rendition of the album’s most recognizable tune. This particular piece is enhanced with the unreleased tracks “Lidi” and “Travelin’.” Fans don’t have to wait till September to get a taste of this; it’s available for streaming right now.
The Legacy of “The Joker”
When “The Joker” was first introduced to the world in October 1973, it quickly dominated the airwaves, becoming a global sensation. It wasn’t just a fleeting chart-topper. In September 1990, thanks to its feature in a Levi’s TV commercial, it once again climbed the charts, showcasing its timeless appeal.
Beyond its commercial success, “The Joker” is significant for marking a pivotal moment in Steve Miller’s career. It paved the way for him to become one of the 70s most definitive artists, selling over 75 million copies of his releases, achieving multiple #1s, and accumulating over five billion streams.
Miller on Tour
Miller’s celebration of “The Joker” isn’t confined to this box set. He’s hitting the road with the Steve Miller Band on a 35 city U.S. tour running through December. For those eager to experience the magic of “The Joker” live, check out the tour schedule on Steve Miller Band’s official site.
Summary
“J50: The Evolution of The Joker” is not just another anniversary release. It’s an intimate look into the artistic journey of a rock legend. As the vinyl spins and the notes play, fans will be transported back to 1973, a time when Steve Miller was redefining rock music. Now, 50 years later, the magic of “The Joker” remains as potent as ever. Pre-order your copy today!
STEVE MILLER BAND
J50: THE EVOLUTION OF THE JOKER
(SAILOR/CAPITOL/UME)
Release Date: Friday, September 15, 2023
Tracklist:
LP1 SIDE ONE
Steve Miller Commentary 1
Children of the Future (Live)
Brave New World (Live)
Dear Mary (Live)
Space Cowboy (Live)
Ginger Man (Live)
Nothing Lasts (Live)
LP1 SIDE TWO
Steve Miller Commentary 2
Sugar Babe (Early Version)
Sugar Babe (Live)
Sugar Babe (Album Version)
Mary Lou (Early Version)
Mary Lou (Album Version)
LP2 SIDE ONE
Steve Miller Commentary 3
Hat (Live – Pre Shu Ba Da Du Ma Ma Ma Ma)
Say Hey Ray (Pre Shu Ba Da Du Ma Ma Ma Ma)
White Elephant (Pre Shu Ba Da Du Ma Ma Ma Ma)
Shu Ba Da Du Ma Ma Ma Ma (Early Version)
Shu Ba Da Du Ma Ma Ma Ma (Album Version)
LP2 SIDE TWO
Steve Miller Commentary 4
Your Cash Ain’t Nothin’ But Trash (Early Version)
Your Cash Ain’t Nothin’ But Trash (Album Version)
Lidi (Twang Guitar)
Lidi (Studio)
Lidi/Travelin’ (Harmonics – Looking for a Chorus for The Joker)
Travelin’ (Looking for a Chorus for The Joker)
The Joker (Album Version)
LP3 SIDE ONE
Steve Miller Commentary 5
Lovin’ Cup (Live)
Lovin’ Cup (Album Version)
Come On In My Kitchen (Live)
Come On In My Kitchen (Album Version)
Evil (Studio Demo)
Evil (Album Version)
LP3 SIDE TWO
Steve Miller Commentary 6
Coupe De Ville (A Cappella)
Something to Believe In (Early Version)
Something to Believe In (Tough Crowd – Live)
Something to Believe In (Album Version)
I Don’t Mind (Hotel 4-Track)
I Don’t Mind (Studio)
Mama Church (A Cappella)
7” SIDE A
The Joker (Single Version)
Lidi/Travelin’ (Harmonics – Looking for a Chorus for The Joker)
7” SIDE B
I Don’t Mind (Studio)
Lidi (Studio)
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
