Boz Scaggs, the legendary singer-songwriter and guitarist born William Royce Scaggs on June 8, 1944, in Canton, Ohio, has been a staple in American music since the 1960s. He first gained prominence as a guitarist and occasional lead singer in the Steve Miller Band, contributing to their early albums before launching a successful solo career. Scaggs’ blend of blue-eyed soul, rock, and blues peaked in the 1970s with his multi-platinum album Silk Degrees in 1976, featuring timeless hits like “Lowdown” and “Lido Shuffle.” Over decades, he’s released over a dozen albums, earning a Grammy for “Lowdown” and continuing to tour with his signature smooth vocals and guitar prowess. At 81, Scaggs shows no signs of slowing down, and his 2025 Rhythm Review Tour proves he’s still got that soulful fire.
On November 8, 2025, Scaggs brought his tour to the historic Murat Theatre at Old National Centre in Indianapolis, a venue that’s a true gem for music lovers. Built in 1910 as part of the Murat Shrine Temple—the largest Shrine Center in North America and the only one with a French-origin name—the theatre boasts a capacity of 2,675. It’s the oldest surviving stage house in downtown Indy, once home to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra until 1963, and has hosted legends from Bob Dylan to Ray Charles. The ornate architecture, with its Moorish-inspired details, created an intimate, vibey atmosphere perfect for Scaggs’ blues-heavy set.
A Departure into Deep Blues Territory
This wasn’t your typical Boz Scaggs show—fans expecting a straight hit parade got a delightful surprise. The Rhythm Review 2025 Tour leaned heavily into blues roots, showcasing Scaggs’ love for the genre with extended jams and tributes to icons like Bobby “Blue” Bland. Scaggs drew out many songs, turning them into showcases for his stellar band, letting the musicians shine with solos that had the crowd cheering. It felt like a masterclass in blues, with Scaggs graciously introducing each tune’s origins, educating the audience without skipping a beat. For instance, he highlighted “It All Went Down the Drain” by Earl King, and his epic take on “Loan Me a Dime,” originally by Fenton Robinson but immortalized on Scaggs’ 1969 self-titled album with Duane Allman on guitar.
The energy was electric, blending Scaggs’ silky voice with gritty blues riffs. Not everyone in the audience might have been blues diehards, but Scaggs made it accessible and fun, drawing us in with stories and that infectious groove. A standout moment? The band’s rendition of Bobby “Blue” Bland’s “The Feeling Is Gone,” stretched out to let the horns wail.
The Band: A Powerhouse Lineup
Scaggs surrounded himself with top-tier talent for this tour, and they delivered big time. Here’s the lineup:
- Jon Herington – Guitar
- Jamison Ross – Drums
- Willie Weeks – Bass
- Branlie Mejias – Vocals & Percussion
- Michael Logan – Keyboards
- Eric Crystal – Saxophone
Special shoutout to Eric Crystal on reeds—he’s been named one of the top 10 Rising Star Soprano Saxophone players in the Downbeat Annual Critics Poll. His solos were pure fire, adding that extra layer of soul to the night. A duck walk to Chuck Berry added to his versatility. He can play anything.
The Verified Setlist: Hits and Blues Classics
The setlist was a verified mix from the show, pulling from Scaggs’ catalog and blues staples. It emphasized longer, jam-oriented versions, making this a unique departure. Here’s the rundown, with origins noted:
- It’s Over (written by Boz Scaggs and David Paich)
- Rock and Stick (written by Boz Scaggs)
- Sierra (written by Boz Scaggs)
- Slow Dancer (written by Boz Scaggs and George Daly)
- The Feeling Is Gone (originally recorded by Bobby “Blue” Bland)
- I’ve Just Got to Know (originally recorded by Jimmy McCracklin)
- Miss Riddle (written by Boz Scaggs)
- It All Went Down the Drain (originally recorded by Earl King)
- Harbor Lights (written by Jimmy Kennedy and Hugh Williams)
- Call That Love (written by Boz Scaggs)
- Radiator 110 (originally recorded by Bobby “Blue” Bland)
- Loan Me a Dime (originally recorded by Fenton Robinson)
- Lowdown (written by Boz Scaggs and David Paich)
- Lido Shuffle (written by Boz Scaggs and David Paich)
Encore:
- What Can I Say (written by Boz Scaggs and David Paich)
- Breakdown Dead Ahead (written by Boz Scaggs)
- You Never Can Tell (originally recorded by Chuck Berry)
Closing out with crowd-pleasers like “Lowdown” and the encore’s upbeat Chuck Berry cover had everyone on their feet. If you’re a fan of soulful blues with a rock edge, this tour is a must-see. Scaggs and his band reminded us why he’s endured—pure talent and passion. Catch him if you can; it’s a rhythm review that will please blues lovers.
