Little Feat

Little Feat formed in Los Angeles in 1969, founded by lead vocalist and guitarist Lowell George, keyboardist Bill Payne, and drummer Richie Hayward. George and bassist Roy Estrada were formerly of Frank Zappa’s Mothers of Invention, and Hayward was from George’s prior band, The Factory. The band’s name, derived from a comment by Mothers’ drummer Jimmy Carl Black about Lowell George’s “little feet,” with the “feat” spelling honoring The Beatles, established their diverse origins. Their early albums, “Little Feat” (1971) and “Sailin’ Shoes” (1972), received critical acclaim, with “Willin'” becoming a recognized song, later popularized by Linda Ronstadt.

The classic lineup, solidified by late 1972, expanded to a sextet with the addition of bassist Kenny Gradney, guitarist and vocalist Paul Barrere, and percussionist Sam Clayton. This period marked a shift towards a New Orleans funk sound, prominently featured on “Dixie Chicken” (1973) and “Feats Don’t Fail Me Now” (1974). Despite commercial challenges, the band continued to evolve, integrating jazz-rock elements. A significant milestone was the release of “Waiting for Columbus” (1978), a live album often lauded as one of the best in rock music. However, creative differences led to George disbanding the group shortly before his death in 1979. Surviving members completed “Down on the Farm” (1979) and released “Hoy-Hoy!” (1981), a compilation of rarities.

Little Feat reformed in 1987 with Craig Fuller on vocals and guitar, and Fred Tackett on guitar, mandolin, and trumpet. Their album “Let It Roll” (1988) achieved commercial success, earning gold status and featuring their first No. 1 hit on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, “Hate to Lose Your Lovin’.” Paul Barrere died in 2019, and the band continues with a lineup that includes Scott Sharrard and Tony Leone. They have consistently released new material, such as “Sam’s Place” (2024) and “Strike Up the Band” (2025), maintaining an active touring schedule and a dedicated fan base.