This was the third album released by Chuck Berry during his time at Mercury Records. The first had him re-recording his greatest hits, while the second was a Memphis-style experiment. This 1967 live album feels like a natural progression, but it’s not quite what fans might expect. Recorded at the Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco, Berry is backed by the Steve Miller Blues Band—later known simply as the Steve Miller Band. Rather than a straightforward live run-through of hits, Berry and his temporary collaborators lean into a bluesier, looser vibe.
Thoughts on the Album
The first track is a medley that gives a flavour of what to expect, starting with “Rockin’ at the Fillmore”. It’s uptempo Blues with pleasing guitar solos and screaming harmonica injected with the unpredictable looseness of Rock ‘n’ Roll. This flows into more familiar territory with the chugging “Everyday I Have the Blues.”
The grooves throughout are strong, as emphasised by “Feelin’ It”, a funky instrumental that perfectly blends Chuck’s style into the intended sound. “Flying Home” also demonstrates Chuck’s unmistakable guitar phrasing. In a set that leans heavily on instrumental tracks, Chuck gives a raw reading of Willie Dixon’s “Hoochie Coochie Man”, made famous by Muddy Waters.
It’s a pleasure to hear Chuck experimenting with different styles here, while still maintaining elements of his sound. His version of “C.C. Rider” is a gentle reading that always feels like it might burst open at any moment—such is the spontaneity. The same could be said for “Driftin’ Blues.”
The album ends on (what else?) a piece of Johnny B Goode! In this context, it seems like a strange inclusion, but it does make sense. Imagine turning up to a live gig and Chuck not blaring out his biggest hit! Especially when it’s being backed by such talent that has anticipated Chuck’s every move.
Conclusion
This is a curious entry in Chuck Berry’s catalogue. It’s got an earthy, raw production that feels calm one moment and chaotic the next. And honestly, I’ve heard worse Berry live recordings.
Live at the Fillmore Auditorium won’t be to everyone’s taste—but it’s another example of Chuck trying something different, and for the most part, it works. It plays like a loose jam session—unpolished, unpredictable, but filled with spirit. The audience certainly seems to be enjoying it, warts and all. Live at the Fillmore Auditorium is available as part of a multi-album set from BGO Records.
A Note: Reissues of this album have included additional tracks from the concert, including “Good Morning Little Schoolgirl”, “Reelin’ and Rockin'” and “My Ding-a-Ling”.
Tracklisting:
- Medley: Rockin’ at the Fillmore / Everyday I Have the Blues
- C.C Rider
- Driftin’ Blues
- Feelin’ It
- Flying Home
- Hoochi Coochi Man
- It Hurts Me Too
- Fillmore Blues
- Wee Baby Blues
- Johnny B. Goode
