This site covers both current and legendary artists … Hot Tuna checks both boxes. They are still touring, ripping it up both electrically and acoustically. Originally formed in 1969 as a side project of Jefferson Airplane bandmates guitarist Jorma Kaukonen and bassist Jack Casady, Hot Tuna played on again and off again until the mid 1980s when it re-solidified and has been touring and recording ever since. Depending on where or when you see them and who’s playing, they could be billed as Hot Tuna, Electric Hot Tuna, Acoustic Hot Tuna or even just Jorma and Jack.

Their first recording, from a live show in 1969 and released in 1970, showcases their acoustic chops and really captures their ability to bring first-class arrangements to an eclectic mix of blues, country, and folk. I’ve seen both electric and acoustic incarnations, and although the electric band really brings it, there is nothing quite like an acoustic Hot Tuna set. Jorma’s acoustic finger-picking and easy-going vocals alongs with the hard-driving bass of Jack just works perfectly on old-time blues and Southern string band music. Over the years there have been many artists in Hot Tuna, some as guests, some as full band members. I’ve seen them with banjos, mandolins, electric guitars, keyboards, you name it, but the core of Jack and Jorma is always there.

Whether it’s electric or acoustic, the music is very, very rootsy. Jorma is a disciple of Delta blues finger-picking with a strong alternate bass thumb style and coupled with Jack's heavy bass, the beat is steady and hard-driving. If you like blues traditional country, or roots-rock, you should treat yourself to some Hot Tuna.

For More:

Jorma’s live concert venue & instrument school: Fur Peace Ranch

Listen here for two of their classics: “Hesitation Blues” & “Death Don’t Have No Mercy”