Joe Bonamassa Unveils “The Last Matador Of Bayonne” from “Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra”
In the latest chapter of his illustrious career, Joe Bonamassa has released a new single, “The Last Matador Of Bayonne,” drawn from his monumental live album and film, Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra.
This release, scheduled for May 17th via J&R Adventures, continues to celebrate Bonamassa’s historic performance at the iconic Hollywood Bowl, blending his unmatched guitar skills with the majesty of a full orchestra.
“The Last Matador Of Bayonne” is not just a musical piece; it’s a narrative journey. Arranged by the legendary David Campbell, the song features a stirring trumpet solo by Rashawn Ross of the Dave Matthews Band. This track, originally from Bonamassa’s 2011 studio album “Dust Bowl,” was inspired by Bonamassa’s experiences touring Europe and playing in ancient amphitheaters, some of which were used for bullfighting. The song’s genesis lies in a moment of reflection in one such venue, leading Bonamassa to ponder the fate and courage of matadors past.
Following the album’s lead single, a live rendition of Bobby “Blue” Bland’s “Twenty-Four Hour Blues,” “The Last Matador Of Bayonne” showcases Bonamassa’s ability to weave deep, resonant stories through his music. This release highlights the emotional depth and dynamic range present throughout Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra, offering fans a new layer of storytelling interlaced with blues and rock.
Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra is a testament to Bonamassa’s journey in music, featuring fan-favorite tracks elevated by orchestral arrangements from some of Hollywood’s finest, including Trevor Rabin and Jeff Bova. Reflecting on the significance of the Hollywood Bowl, Bonamassa shared, “Very few gigs represent my journey in music more than the Hollywood Bowl. I moved to Los Angeles in 2003 in search of opportunity… The orchestra and the sheer scale of the event and venue is something I will never forget.”
The release, available in various formats including CD/DVD, CD/BR, 2 LP Vinyl, and digital, captures the essence of Bonamassa’s career, highlighting his exceptional talent and the impactful fusion of blues, rock, and orchestral music.
Riding the momentum from his U.S. Spring Tour and the ninth annual voyage of his KEEPING THE BLUES ALIVE AT SEA cruise, Bonamassa is set to captivate audiences across Europe. He will then return to the U.S. for his eagerly awaited “Blues Deluxe Tour,” celebrating his seminal albums Blues Deluxe and its chart-topping successor, Blues Deluxe Vol. 2. This 21-city tour promises an electrifying mix of Bonamassa’s classics and deep tracks, performed live for the first time with a band of world-class musicians.
Guitar World has hailed Bonamassa as “the world’s biggest blues guitarist,” a nod to his skill, influence, and role in propelling blues-rock to the forefront of the music scene. With a career spanning over three decades, Bonamassa has consistently enthralled global audiences with his dynamic live performances and musical ingenuity.
Joe Bonamassa, a blues-rock superstar, is celebrated as one of the most accomplished performing musicians of today. A three-time GRAMMY-nominated artist and 15x Blues Music Award Nominee (4-time winner), he recently achieved his 27th No. 1 album on the Billboard Blues Chart with Blues Deluxe Vol. 2. Beyond his solo work, Bonamassa’s discography spans over 40 albums, including collaborations with Black Country Communion and Rock Candy Funk Party. His relentless work ethic extends to producing albums for other artists through his independent label KTBA Records and his recent venture, Journeyman LLC, aimed at building awareness for independent artists worldwide.
Bonamassa’s contributions to music and his efforts to keep the blues alive through his non-profit have made a lasting impact, ensuring his place as a living legend in the world of blues-rock.
