As soon as I clicked on the link that CB sent me I knew I heard this before on our old rock station here WKDF. They would mix new songs with old and it worked well. Love the groove in this one with that guitar constantly riffing through the song.
Mason Ruffner grew up in Texas but has adopted New Orleans as his home. In 1987, he released his second album entitled Gypsy Blood with the title track becoming a Mainstream Rock Track hit in 1987.
In the early 80s, his band backed musicians such as such as John Lee Hooker and Memphis Slim. He was spotted in 1985 by a CBS scout and was offered a contract. He released his self-titled album in 1985 to critical praise.
Ruffner’s style attracted notable musicians, including Bruce Springsteen, Jimmy Page, Carlos Santana, and ZZ Top, who would attend his performances or sit in with him. He opened up for a variety of acts that included Crosby, Stills & Nash, Jimmy Page, U2, and Ringo Starr. He also played on Bob Dylan’s album Oh Mercy.
He released his album Gypsy Blood in 1987 and it was produced by Dave Edmunds. The song peaked at #11 on the Billboard Hot Track Charts in 1987. The album peaked at #80 on the Billboard Album Chart.
Gypsy Blood
Lord knows I was born a gypsy
My heart can steal you blind
I got my hand on my suitcase
Lots of travelin’ on my mind
Yeah, it’s that blood yeah, that gypsy blood
That carries me far from my love
My spirit flies just like a dove
I got that gypsy blood
I know that there ain’t nothin’
There’s nothin’ like a woman’s touch
But love just burns me like fire
Love is costin’ me too much
Must be that blood, must be that gypsy blood
That carries me far from my love
My spirit flies just like a dove
I got that gypsy blood
Do you wanta ride along with me, baby?
Well, I’m on the run
Well, I’m restless and I’m weary
I’m gonna shoot my gun!
Take me out there on that highway
Let the wind blow in my face
If I fall by the wayside
Somebody else can take my place
Yeah, it’s that blood yeah, that gypsy blood
That carries me far from my love
My spirit flies just like a dove
I got that gypsy blood
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Well here’s a Dave Edmunds connection that appears to have slipped by me! This guy definitely reminds me of Delbert McClinton. Great stuff!
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Thanks Randy! A little Robert Cray as well.
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Nice post 🎸🌅
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Very cool! 👍😎
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Very enjoyable music from a talent that I have never heard about.
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sounds sort of Bob Dylan-with-an-edge ish…
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Never heard him or heard of him, but a great way to continue my Sunday after Garcia. Thanks!
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Another cool song by another cool-looking artist I had never heard of before. CB continues to impress me with his deep knowledge of music!
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I totally agree dude…I like the groove he has here.
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Another gem I’d forgotten. Love that rapid fire guitar work that drives it. I can hear the west Texas/Bobby Fuller influence mixed with Louisiana swamp rock. I’m going to give the album a listen on Spotify.
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Thanks Pam. As soon as I heard it I knew it from back then. You are right…I can hear the Texas.
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Thats a pretty obscure live cut you found. I still listen to Mason. Like I said he’s more blues oriented now. This is a great cut. Studio version has it going on. Crank it up Max.
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I haven’t heard it since the 80s….and this was a great reminder dude…I appreciate it.
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No problem. Mason could probably use a little love.
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