Jimi Bott

While still in high school Jimi started his professional career at the tender age of 17 with well-known Bay Area blues men, Paul Durkett and Byrd Hale. At 19 he joined Mark Hummel and the Blues Survivors, starting what would be the beginning of a perpetual life on the road. On his 21st birthday he auditioned for and won the gig of his dreams with Rod Piazza and the Mighty Flyers, the very same band that had inspired him to become a professional drummer. After a total of 8 years with The Fabulous Thunderbirds Jimi has left the band to take a break from touring, and to work in his Portland based studio, Roseleaf Studios. Currently he is playing with his new band, Woodbrain, in Portland and in the Pacific Northwest. His discography boasts impressive credits to over 60 CD’s and countless live performances with other blues greats.

Born in San Francisco on August 13, 1965, some would say that music is in his blood. His father, Ken Bott, was his earliest musical influence. He would sing and play guitar every night after work entertaining Jimi, his brother Jere, their mom and two dogs (the audience was nearly spellbound each evening). Ken bought Jimi his very first drum and paid for his lessons. His mother Lee, though often rattled by his constant practicing, was always encouraging and supportive. Later, he and his brother Jere would record and produce their father’s very late debut CD entitled The Blues From Bottsville (click here for more information and to buy a copy). At the age of 72, Ken was finally able to realize his life-long dream to write and record an album. The Blues From Bottsville features Jim Wallace, one of Portland’s most seasoned blues musicians, on harmonica as well as Marc Ford, famous guitarist for the Black Crowes & Ben Harper. Only released as a limited pressing, the CD was very well received on the west coast and in blues magazines, such as Blues Revue. The CD also won Ken his first professional gig at the renowned Portland Riverfront Blues Festival. Ken was backed by Jere and Jimi’s local band (featuring Jim Wallace and young guitarist, Wayne Morely) and they tore the house down!… Full Bio