Concert EventsBlues at Orinda - Steve Freund Blues TrioSunday, October 26, 2025 at 5:00 PM
Steve Freund is a renowned blues guitarist, singer, bandleader, and record producer, known for his deep knowledge and soulful execution of blues music. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1952, he was initially exposed to classical piano through his mother and various musical styles like doo-wop and early rock and roll. However, he became captivated by blues and soul music, particularly after seeing James Brown and hearing artists like Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey at a young age.
Early career and Chicago apprenticeship:
Freund's passion for the blues led him to immerse himself in the music, attending numerous concerts and soaking up the scene. He met and was inspired by legends such as Otis Spann, Lightnin' Hopkins, and Muddy Waters, and aspired to play alongside them. In 1976, he made a pivotal move to Chicago, where he began his career as a second guitarist for iconic blues figures like Hubert Sumlin, Lee Jackson, Homesick James, and Louis Myers.
He spent two years learning the "deep blues" and its nuances by working with Big Walter Horton and Floyd Jones. In 1978, he became Sunnyland Slim's primary guitarist, playing with the piano legend until his passing. During this time, he also honed his skills as a piano accompanist, working with renowned artists like Pinetop Perkins, Jimmy Walker, Henry Gray, and Erwin Helfer. Freund also spent nine years playing with harmonica legend James Cotton.
San Francisco Bay Area and continued success:
In the 1990s, Freund relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area, where he remains a prominent figure in the blues scene. He has residencies at venues such as The Saloon in San Francisco and Armando's in Martinez and performs regularly at the Empress Theatre in Vallejo. He has also taught accredited blues courses at Chicago's Columbia College, demonstrating his commitment to sharing his knowledge and expertise.
Collaborations, recordings, and accolades
Freund has collaborated with and performed alongside various artists, including Boz Scaggs, Koko Taylor, and Maria Muldaur. He contributed to Koko Taylor's Grammy-winning album "Blues Explosion". He has also made guest appearances on albums like R.J. Mischo's "West Wind Blowin: Mountain Top Productions, Vol. 3".
His discography as a bandleader includes several acclaimed albums:
• "Set Me Free" (1984)
• "Romance Without Finance" (1987)
• ""C" For Chicago" (1999)
• "I'll Be Your Mule" (2001)
• "Is What It Is" (with Dave Specter) (2004)
• "Lonesome Flight" (2010)
• "Come On in This House" (2013)