Everything Music. Everything News. Everything live.

Legendary Blues-Rock Keyboardist, Barry Goldberg, Dies Aged 83

Sterling Munksgard / Shutterstock.com
Sterling Munksgard / Shutterstock.com

Barry Goldberg, a revered figure in blues rock music and an accomplished keyboardist, has passed away at the age of 83. His lasting impact on music is underscored by his work with an array of legendary musicians, including Bob Dylan, the Ramones, and Leonard Cohen. His profound influence extended across various genres and left a lasting legacy in rock and blues music history.

Goldberg's involvement with Dylan reaches back to the historic Newport Folk Festival in 1965, where Dylan made headlines by electrifying his performance, a momentous event that is immortalized in music history. Goldberg was a part of Dylan's backing band, the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, at this monumental show. Their collaboration continued beyond that iconic stage, with Goldberg being the only artist for whom Dylan ever produced a full album, Goldberg's self-titled project in 1974. Later, Goldberg reciprocated by producing Dylan's version of “People Get Ready” for the “Flashback” movie soundtrack, further cementing their musical camaraderie.

Throughout his career, Goldberg played a pivotal role in several influential bands and projects. He co-founded Electric Flag, a blues-rock band known for its groundbreaking works like the soundtrack for the film “The Trip”. His work extended beyond performance, showcasing his talent as a songwriter and producer. Goldberg co-wrote hits such as “I've Got to Use My Imagination”, a major R&B success for Gladys Knight & the Pips, and collaborated with Stephen Stills and Kenny Wayne Shepherd in the supergroup The Rides.

Born in Chicago on December 25, 1941, Goldberg's musical roots were deeply embedded in the city's vibrant blues scene. From an early age, he shared stages with blues greats like Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf. His friendship with guitarist Mike Bloomfield was instrumental in his artistic development and professional breakthrough. Together, they explored Chicago's robust music venues, which laid the foundation for his future endeavors in the blues genre.

In addition to his notable collaborations, Goldberg's discography boasts contributions to many seminal records that shaped the music landscape of the 20th century. He provided keyboard work on Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels’ hit “Devil With A Blue Dress On/Good Golly Miss Molly”, and his musical prowess was sought by a diverse range of artists across genres, from the Flying Burrito Brothers to Leonard Cohen.

Barry Goldberg's passing marks the end of an era in which he played a vital role in pioneering and expanding the boundaries of blues and rock music. Despite his passing, his contributions continue to resonate and influence artists across the musical spectrum. His life and career remain a testament to the transformative power of music and the lasting impact of genuine artistic collaboration. As the music world pays tribute to this extraordinary musician, Barry Goldberg's legacy lives on through his memorable works and the musicians who continue to draw inspiration from his remarkable journey.

Key Takeaways

Related Stories

Rush 2026 Tour Dates: 11 New Dates Added Due To Demand

Rush is bolstering its highly anticipated Fifty Something reunion tour by adding 11 new shows. The expansion responds to intense…

Dolly Parton’s Health: What We Know So Far Following Her Sister’s Alarming Statement

Country music legend Dolly Parton is facing renewed public concern following announcements that she is postponing major performances due to…

ChatGPT and Spotify Team Up for Music Recommendations, But Should We Be Excited or Worried?

Introduction ChatGPT and Spotify have announced a new partnership that lets users request personalized music and podcast recommendations directly through…

Foo Fighters Surprise Fans with Live EP “Are Playing Where??? Vol. 1”

The Foo Fighters have dropped a surprise new live EP titled Are Playing Where??? Vol. 1, capturing the raw energy…

The Who, John Fogerty, Def Leppard, Cheap Trick & more rock backyard benefit for Teen Cancer America

Rock legends The Who returned to the stage for an unforgettable night in Los Angeles, hosting their 10th annual Backyard…

Neil Peart and Geddy Lee of Rush Rush in concert, Austin, Texas - 16 May 2015

Rush Announces Long-Awaited Return to the Road with 2026 “Fifty Something” Tour

Legendary Canadian progressive rock band Rush is officially hitting the road again. After more than a decade since their last…

The Who’s Final North American Performance: Setlist, Moments, and an Emotional Farewell

  Quick takeaways The Who closed their North American Farewell Tour—“The Song Is Over”—on October 1, 2025, at Acrisure Arena…

MAX WEINBERG ( Drums) and BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN and the E Street Band perform onstage during the opening night of The Land of Hope and Dreams Tour at Co-op Live Arena on May 14, 2025, in Manchester, England. The 2025 tour is SPRINGSTEEN's first major European run since 2023 and features classic hits alongside material from his recent albums. The show took place at the UK's newest and largest indoor arena. Bruce Springsteen Opens The Land Of Hope And Dreams Tour In Manchester, United Kingdom - 14 May 2025

Bruce Springsteen Stuns NYFF With Acoustic “Land of Hope and Dreams”

Bruce Springsteen made a surprise appearance at the 63rd New York Film Festival in New York City on September 28,…

REO Speedwagon Reunites: Rock Legends Come Together Once More

In late September 2025, fans got a shock — and a thrill — when REO Speedwagon reunited onstage for the…