The music of Lester Butler was again summoned in a November tribute show orchestrated by former Butler and 13 representatives.
“13: A Tribute to Lester Butler” (subtitled “Let’s Do This One More Time!”) was Nov. 25 at Zalencentrum de Schakel in The Netherlands. All Lester Butler eras were recognized by this all-star ensemble, capably led by Big Pete on harp and vocals. The band included:
- Alex Schultz (guitar), a key member of 13, on record and on tour.
- Zach Zunis (guitar), who joined The Red Devils on lead guitar in 1993, and performed with Butler live and on various records between the Devils and 13 periods.
- “Mississippi” Mike Hightower (bass), 13’s touring bass player across the U.S. and Europe in 1997/98.
- Johnny “Captain” Morgan (drums), the drummer on unforgettable 13 songs such as the James Brown-flavored “Sweet Tooth” and mean blues “Black Hearted Woman.”
As advertised, this was a one-and-done performance from this particular lineup. Thankfully, Facebook and YouTube come to the rescue, with plenty of videos and photos to enjoy. Especially check out the gorgeous photos by Leo Gabriels, including the image above and this photo embed:
Based on photos, here is the setlist from the evening:
“13: A Tribute to Lester Butler,” Nov. 25, 2023, at Zalencentrum de Schakel in The Netherlands
- Night
- Down in New Orleans
- Automatic
- Come On In This House
- Blackwater Roll
- So Low Down
- I Wish You Would
- Early In the Morning
- Stretch My Money (likely “Trying to Stretch My Money,” William Clarke cover)
- Black Hearted Woman
- Driftin’
- Way Down South
- Sweet Tooth
- Devil Woman
- Time to Cry
No Fightin' 