John Mayall - The Devil Must Be Laughing

The Devil Must Be Laughing
Songwriter: John Mayall
Publishing: Hibiscus, ASCAP

Throughout his career, John Mayall has always written timely songs that reflect what he sees going on in the world around him, whether it’s war, poverty, social injustice or personal introspection. Such is the case with “The Devil Must Be Laughing,” which deals with the current political and world climate. And that incentive also brought him in touch with Joe Walsh, who contributes some percolating guitar work that melds perfectly with the song’s theme.

For Joe Walsh, playing on a session with one of his musical heroes held a special place. “It has been a bucket-list item since 1970 to play with John Mayall,” Walsh said. “John had a run of GREAT British guitarists (one after another) with his ‘Bluesbreakers’ albums, and that’s how many of us in the States became aware of them.  Clapton, Peter Green, Mick Taylor - I studied them all for hours and became a much better guitarist as a result. The albums were legendary stuff and I have wanted to work with John for years and years, wondering what it would be like.

“Finally got the chance - and he was the complete gentleman and fine, fine musician I had always hoped he would be. When you meet a hero who helped shape your career – it’s a wonderful feeling to find they’re even cooler than you always thought they were.”

The track was produced by John Mayall (who also designed the album package) and Forty Below Records president Eric Corne (who also engineered and mixed).

John Mayall: Vocals, Keyboards, Harmonica and Guitar
Greg Rzab: Bass
Jay Davenport: Drums
Rocky Athas: Guitar
Joe Walsh: Guitar