Canned Heat's FITO de la PARRA

The story of American sixties Blues band, CANNED HEAT is a tragic tale of drugs, alcohol, sex and rock n Roll. 

It was founded by two blues historians and record collectors, Alan Wilson and Bob Hite. This week we meet the band’s sole surviving member, drummer FITO DE LA PARRA who tells us about the band’s incredible journey over the past 60 years. Despite all the excesses and loss of several band members, Canned Heat’s music has not only survived but remains even more popular today. 

Fito discuses his book ‘Living the Blues’ and regales us with stories from the road. He laments about the fact that he was unable to stop lead singer Bob Hite from overdosing and dying in front of him at his home. He says he watched on as slowly but surely, several members of his band and touring party succumbed to drug and alcohol cocktails. These says de la Parra sometimes contributed to the music. Other times they hampered the artists so severely that playing became impossible.

The conversation between Fito and I takes us from the depth and meaning of Blues music to motorcycle gangs and the way they spend their time. Fito often wonders how life and music may have been different if drugs didn’t play the part they did.  He is grateful he survived that era and continues to lead the band today.

His ex-wife called his book, Living the Blues, repugnant. You are sure to find Fito de la Parra’s stories (and his book) captivating.

For more information about Canned Heat head for https://cannedheatmusic.com/

To pick up a copy of the book, Living the Blues in either English or Spanish https://www.amazon.com.au/Living-Blues-Fito-Parra/dp/0615516041

To send me a request to hear your favourite artist interviewed on A Breath of Fresh Air www.abreathoffreshair.com.au 

I hope you enjoy this episode and would love to hear your thoughts.