Jimmy Herring, American guitarist

Born on January 22, 1962, Jimmy Herring stands as a preeminent figure in the world of improvisational music, celebrated for his extraordinary virtuosity and diverse contributions across various genres. He is widely recognized as the lead guitarist for the acclaimed American jam band Widespread Panic, a role he embraced following the departure of George McConnell in 2006. Herring's intricate and dynamic playing style has since become a cornerstone of Widespread Panic's iconic sound, enriching their live performances and studio recordings with his unique blend of jazz, rock, and fusion.

Herring's musical journey began long before his tenure with Widespread Panic, establishing him as a foundational force in several groundbreaking ensembles. He is a respected founding member of Aquarium Rescue Unit (ARU), a highly influential instrumental jazz-fusion group that emerged from the vibrant Atlanta music scene in the late 1980s. ARU gained widespread acclaim for its complex compositions, extensive improvisational jams, and innovative blend of jazz, rock, funk, and bluegrass elements, significantly impacting the nascent jam band scene. Fellow founding members included bassist Oteil Burbridge, drummer Jeff Sipe, and vocalist/multi-instrumentalist Bruce Hampton, creating a powerful collective known for its intense musical dialogue. Following this, Herring also co-founded Jazz Is Dead, a supergroup dedicated to reinterpreting the music of The Grateful Dead through a jazz-fusion lens. This project allowed Herring to showcase his remarkable improvisational skills by reimagining classic Grateful Dead compositions with sophisticated harmonic and rhythmic approaches, appealing to both jazz enthusiasts and Deadheads alike.

Beyond his core bands, Herring's exceptional talent has made him a sought-after collaborator for some of the most legendary names in music. His extensive resume includes significant stints with The Allman Brothers Band, where he often stepped in as a guest guitarist or temporary member, seamlessly integrating his powerful, melodic style into their Southern rock and blues framework. He was also an integral part of Project Z, an instrumental jazz-fusion quartet featuring fellow ARU alumni, further exploring experimental and improvisational territories. His collaborations extend to the Derek Trucks Band, where his distinct voice complimented Trucks' slide guitar prowess, and with Phil Lesh and Friends, where he contributed to various configurations of the Grateful Dead bassist's evolving post-Dead ensembles. Notably, Herring has also performed with The Dead, the collective featuring surviving members of The Grateful Dead, cementing his status as a key interpreter of their expansive musical legacy. These diverse engagements underscore Herring's versatility and his ability to adapt his distinctive voice to a wide array of musical contexts, earning him a reputation as one of the most respected and innovative guitarists of his generation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jimmy Herring

When did Jimmy Herring join Widespread Panic?

Jimmy Herring officially joined Widespread Panic as their lead guitarist in 2006, following the departure of George McConnell.

What is Aquarium Rescue Unit known for?

Aquarium Rescue Unit (ARU), co-founded by Herring, is renowned for its pioneering blend of jazz, rock, funk, and bluegrass, alongside complex instrumental compositions and extensive, intricate improvisations. They are considered highly influential in the development of the jam band genre.

What is Jazz Is Dead?

Jazz Is Dead is a collective co-founded by Jimmy Herring that focuses on reinterpreting the classic songs of The Grateful Dead through a jazz-fusion framework, offering instrumental versions with sophisticated improvisational elements.

Has Jimmy Herring played with The Allman Brothers Band?

Yes, Jimmy Herring has frequently performed with The Allman Brothers Band, often serving as a guest guitarist or temporary fill-in, contributing his distinct guitar style to their iconic blues-rock sound.

What defines Jimmy Herring's guitar style?

Jimmy Herring's guitar style is characterized by its remarkable technical proficiency, extensive harmonic vocabulary, and a fluid blend of jazz, rock, and blues influences. He is celebrated for his sophisticated improvisational skills, melodic sensibility, and ability to weave complex lines with exceptional clarity and power.