First Show: 6:30pm | Doors @ 5:15pm
Second Show: 9:00pm
$35 Presale | $40 Day of Show
Johnny "V" Vernazza was born in San Francisco and raised in Daly City, right at the heart of the Bay Area’s vibrant 1960s music scene. Growing up during a time when clubs like the Fillmore and Avalon Ballroom defined the cultural landscape, he absorbed the energy of live music and the spirit of relentless performance that became the norm in the city’s bustling music circuit.
Starting his musical journey in 1963 as a guitarist and even picking up the bass along the way, Johnny quickly made his mark. He toured with a rock band that opened for legends such as Quicksilver Messenger Service, War, and Big Brother and the Holding Company, experiences that honed his skills and deepened his connection to the rock movement of the era.
By 1970, Johnny expanded his repertoire by joining the gospel band "Gideon and Power," touring the country and even appearing on the Sonny & Cher Summer Show on NBC TV. His involvement in the blues scene further solidified his reputation, as he shared stages with blues greats like Luther Tucker and Sunnyland Slim, and held court in San Francisco's North Beach alongside renowned musicians.
Perhaps the most defining chapter of his career came through his collaboration with Elvin Bishop. Their innovative dual lead and slide guitar interplay not only resulted in six albums and extensive touring but also helped shape the Southern Rock sound, immortalized by the hit “Fooled Around and Fell in Love.” Johnny "V" Vernazza’s legacy lives on through his influential contributions to rock and blues, bridging generations with his timeless sound.