San Diego is fortunate to have many great guitarists in town, but Greg Douglass is in a class of his own. Douglass recently released a new solo album, “Flight of the Dragon,” but it’s his work as a sideman since the 1960s that’s made him a legend. Few acts get one pass at the brass ring, but Douglass’s talents are such that his playing and songwriting can be heard on albums by the likes of Tom Johnston and Eddie Money, while he also spent time on the road as part of Hot Tuna and the Van Morrison Band. But even that’s just the tip of the iceberg. He was also a member of the Greg Kihn Band, performing on their hit song, “Jeopardy” and a member of the Steve Miller Band, co-writing their classic “Jungle Love.” A major hit upon release in 1977, the song had a second life when it became the theme song to popular TV sitcom, “Everybody Loves Raymond.” “Just goes to show, you never know,” Douglass mused from his home in Escondido. “I co-wrote the song with bassist Lonnie Turner and it was in fact turned down previously by (British rocker) Dave Mason. But Steve Miller, who Lonnie was performing with at the time, heard something in the song.” Douglass was soon asked to join the band, with one of his first gigs being as opener for Fleetwood Mac before nearly 100,000 people at Philadelphia’s JFK Stadium in 1978. On Nov. 11, Douglass and his band, which also includes singer and rhythm guitarist Rose Gill, drummer Hector Toro and bassist Joe Hastings, will perform at Mother’s Saloon, playing several sets of classic rock classics from groups such as The Rolling Stones, The Beatles and Bonnie Raitt as well as new wave-era tracks by combos such as The Flamin’ Groovies, The Pretenders and the Blasters. The night of course will also include his signature song, “Jungle Love.” He has played much bigger venues, but he’s especially happy to be performing at Mother’s. “I actually went to the club and it had such a great, funky fabulous dive bar vibe,” he enthused. “I immediately thought, this is the kind of place I want to play, this is the kind of place Chuck Berry or Bo Diddley would have played. It’s a perfect mix of dancing and sweat and such a fun, crazy crowd. We’ll be doing three sets, starting at 10 p.m., as long as I can make it past my bed time,” he joked.
In addition to playing with his own band, Douglass also teaches guitar and tours the world with several other world-renowned sixties era groups, including the Electric Flag and Big Brother & The Holding Company, as well as an all-star group, Monsters of Classic Rock, alongside members of AC/DC, Huey Lewis & The News and The McCoys. However his focus more recently has been on his own music, especially the new album. “I’m really proud of everything I’ve done, but this one is special,” Douglass said. “It’s a complete package from the great artwork on the cover from legendary artist William Stout, to the wonderful playing from all the musicians involved. I’m happy to have this out there.”
After more than five decades performing music, Douglass is happier than ever with his career choice. “Because I’m getting better at it,” he said. “About three years ago I had an epiphany while on tour in England. My playing went up a level due to sobriety and confidence; meanwhile I’m being appreciated as people realize I had an impact on music, no matter how small.” Its clear Douglass is thrilled where his muse has taken him. “I’m happier than I’ve ever been. I’ve accepted the parameters of my gifts, to the best of my abilities,” he said. “This is the most gratifying time in my career.”
Greg Douglass: Friday, Nov. 11 at Mother’s, 2228 Bacon St., 10 p.m. 21 and up. For more information, visit www.motherssaloon.com.
