Happy birthday to John Bell, the beloved frontman for Widespread Panic, born on April 14th, 1962 in Cleveland, OH.
From Widespread Panic’s early beginnings at the University of Georgia in 1986 when “JB” and the band’s late founding lead guitarist Michael Houser first met in a student dormitory, Bell and his trademark howl have propelled the music of Widespread Panic to becoming a headline-level act. In the nearly 40 years since, Panic has become one of the largest bands in the jam scene, earning fans across the nation thanks to their tight-laced improvisations, Southern rock roots, and high-caliber musicianship.
In celebration of Bell’s 62nd birthday today, check out a compilation of some of our favorite JB raps from over the years. Enjoy!
“Let It Rock” – Oak Mountain Amphitheater – Pelham, AL – 7/27/2001
[Video:Â squarebush222]
“Bowlegged Woman” – UNO Lakefront Arena – New Orleans, LA – 10/27/2001
[Video:Â oceangalleon]
“Arleen” – Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion – Raleigh, NC – 4/26/2008
[Video:Â Adam McGinnis]
“Diner” – Amphitheater at the Wharf – Orange Beach, AL – 4/19/2009
[Video:Â billogg]
“Hatfield” – BOK Center – Tulsa, OK – 5/1/2010
[Video:Â colbruce]
“Barstools” – Amphitheater at the Wharf – Orange Beach, AL – 5/7/2010
[Video:Â TheWalker1013]
“Bowlegged Woman” –Â Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Morrison, CO – 6/30/2013
[Video:Â widespreadmusic]
“Diner” – Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Morrison, CO – 6/27/2015
[Video:Â Horseseyes1]