Hour Four of this week’s Blues Before Sunrise delivers the centerpiece of the entire program—a powerful live recording featuring Muddy Waters and his band performing in Warsaw, Poland on October 22, 1976. This is not just another live blues set; it’s a snapshot of a fully matured Chicago blues sound being carried across the world, performed by one of the greatest bands Muddy ever assembled.

By the mid-1970s, Muddy Waters was no longer just a pioneer—he was a living legend. His influence had already shaped the course of electric blues and inspired generations of rock musicians. But what makes this performance special is the band behind him. This lineup would later become known as the Legendary Blues Band, featuring Pinetop Perkins on piano, Calvin “Fuzz” Jones on bass, Willie “Big Eyes” Smith on drums, Luther “Guitar Jr” Johnson on guitar, Jerry Portnoy on harmonica, and Bob Margolin on guitar. Together, they formed a tight, road-tested unit capable of delivering both subtlety and raw power.

The set opens with “Blow Wind Blow,” immediately establishing the deep groove and commanding presence that defined Muddy’s live performances. His voice, weathered but strong, carries authority, while the band locks into a rhythm that feels both relaxed and unstoppable.

“What’s the Matter with the Mill” and “Screamin’ & Cryin’” follow, showcasing the band’s ability to shift dynamics while maintaining that unmistakable Chicago blues feel. There’s a looseness to the performance—an organic quality that only comes from years of playing together night after night.

When the band launches into “Got My Mojo Workin’,” the energy rises instantly. This is one of Muddy’s signature songs, and here it’s delivered with a confidence and drive that turns it into a centerpiece of the set. The audience may be thousands of miles from Chicago, but the feeling is exactly the same.

“Garbage Man” and “Baby Please Don’t Go” continue the momentum, blending humor, storytelling, and rhythm into performances that feel both timeless and immediate. Muddy’s ability to connect with an audience—regardless of language or location—is on full display throughout the set.

The mood shifts slightly with “Soon Forgotten,” bringing a more reflective tone before the band dives back into classics like “Hoochie Coochie Man.” That track alone is a masterclass in blues structure—built on tension, release, and a powerful stop-time rhythm that allows Muddy’s vocals to take center stage.

Interestingly, the set includes a performance titled “Howling Wolf,” a nod to Muddy’s longtime contemporary and friendly rival. It’s a reminder of the interconnected nature of the Chicago blues scene and the artists who helped define it.

After the Muddy Waters set, the hour continues with additional tracks that expand the blues landscape. “Sweet Home Chicago” by Big John Trice keeps the Chicago connection alive, while “Lester’s Comet” from Maddog Lester adds an instrumental twist.

The inclusion of “Deep Feeling” and “Wee Wee Hours” by Chuck Berry bridges blues and early rock and roll, highlighting how Muddy’s influence extended far beyond the blues world. Finally, “Bo Diddley’s a Gunfighter” by Bo Diddley closes the hour with a rhythmic drive that feels both primal and modern.

Hour Four stands as the heart of the program—a reminder that the blues is not confined to one place or time. From the South Side of Chicago to a stage in Warsaw, the music travels, evolves, and continues to speak to audiences everywhere.

Playlist – Hour Four

Blow Wind Blow – Muddy Waters

What’s the Matter with the Mill – Muddy Waters

Screamin’ & Cryin’ – Muddy Waters

Got My Mojo Workin’ – Muddy Waters

Garbage Man – Muddy Waters

Baby Please Don’t Go – Muddy Waters

Soon Forgotten – Muddy Waters

Hoochie Coochie Man – Muddy Waters

Howling Wolf – Muddy Waters

Sweet Home Chicago – Big John Trice

Lester’s Comet – Maddog Lester

Deep Feeling – Chuck Berry

Wee Wee Hours – Chuck Berry

Bo Diddley’s a Gunfighter – Bo Diddley