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Over the past two decades, Jeff Watson has
established himself as one of the worlds most revolutionary and
technically gifted guitarists. Jeff originated the “8 Finger Technique,” a
fret board tapping style he has used to astound casual fans and
professional musicians alike, whether it be on Night Ranger hits like
“(You Can Still) Rock In America”, on his awesome solo albums, or through
his work with Mothers Army. Jeff’s musical talent has also made him a
highly sought after session player, adding guitar tracks to the albums of
Chris Isaak, Tony MacAlpine, Steve Morse, and many more. Jeffs powerful
stage presence, and flawless playing has become one of his trademarks.
Overshadowed by his virtuoso playing is Jeffs songwriting talent. He has
shown an incredible knack for writing powerful heartfelt lyrics and
gorgeous arrangements. One listen to songs like “Goodbye,” “Let Him Run,”
“Sunday Morning,” and “Around The Sun,” and any listener can feel the pure
emotion Jeff can evoke in his songs. This is not to say that Jeff can't
pen blazing rockers, and songs like the Night Ranger classics “New York
Time” and “I Don’t Call This Love”, or Jeffs solo tune “Cement Shoes”
(with Sammy Hagar), are a testament to that.
Before Night Ranger, Jeff gigged around the Sacramento/San Francisco
bay area with his own band, appropriately titled “The Jeff Watson Band”.
It wouldn’t be long though, (after doing shows with Ted Nugent, Sammy
Hagar, and Heart) before Jeff met Alan “Fitz” Fitzgerald (Montrose/ Sammy
Hagar) and they decided they wanted to work together. Fitz was living with
Jack Blades at the time, and along with Brad Gillis and Kelly Keagy they
formed Night Ranger. From the moment Night Ranger’s first single “Don’t
Tell Me You Love Me” hit the airwaves, rock fans new this band was
something special. That song showcased the breath-taking duel leads of
Jeff and partner in crime Brad Gillis, and announced to the world the
coming of two new guitar Gods. As Night Rangers album sales grew, (more
than 16 million and counting), so did Jeff’s reputation as one of the most
talented guitarists in rock n’ roll. |