It’s a shame, really, that for so many younger music fans, Foghat’s legacy is distilled down to a single track, forever immortalized in the digital ether of guitar hero video games. "Slow Ride" is a fantastic song, no doubt, but to stop there is to miss out on a band that was a genuine powerhouse in the classic rock era. Foghat wasn't just a band; they were a force, a hardworking, authentic blues-rock outfit that could hold their own against the biggest names of the 70s and 80s. They blended the raw soul of the blues with a rock and roll swagger that was utterly infectious.
For those of us who lived through their heyday, or even just dipped our toes into their extensive catalog, Foghat offered something special. They were as popular in certain parts of the US as Led Zeppelin or the Rolling Stones, and in places like Long Island, they were practically royalty. Even with the passing of founding members Dave Peverett and Rod Price, the band's spirit, and their music, continues to resonate. So, let's dive beyond the most famous hit and explore some of the iconic anthems that define Foghat's enduring appeal.
10. Honey Hush (Live)
Kicking off our list is the electrifying live rendition of "Honey Hush." While it first appeared on their 1974 album Energized, it's the version found on the seminal Foghat Live (1977) that truly captures the band's raw energy. This track is a full-throttle blast, featuring two blistering guitar solos and Dave Peverett's incredible scatting at the end – pure, unadulterated rock and roll magic. It’s interesting to note the sonic kinship between "Honey Hush" and "Train Kept A-Rollin'," both sharing remarkably similar riffs. While "Train Kept A-Rollin'" predates it, with roots in Tiny Bradshaw's 1951 composition, Big Joe Turner's "Honey Hush" followed a couple of years later. The Johnny Burnette Trio's 1956 double single release cemented the connection, and the enduring popularity of covers by The Yardbirds and Aerosmith ensured "Train Kept A-Rollin'" became a classic rock staple.
9. Burning the Midnight Oil
Coming in at number nine, "Burning the Midnight Oil" might be a deeper cut for casual listeners, but for dedicated fans from 1976, it was a standout. Featured on the phenomenal Night Shift album, this track boasts one of Foghat's most potent opening riffs. Dave Peverett's vocal performance here is simply killer, a testament to his raw talent that we still miss dearly.
8. Third Time Lucky
Representing a slight departure from their signature hard-driving blues-rock, "Third Time Lucky" from 1979 offers a more mid-tempo groove. Released on the Boogie Motel album, this song, penned by Dave Peverett, showcased the band's versatility and willingness to explore different sonic territories while still retaining their core identity.
7. Stone Blue
The title track from their seventh album, "Stone Blue," closed out Foghat's incredibly successful 1970s run. This album, produced by the legendary Eddie Kramer (who had previously worked with Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin), helped solidify a loyal fanbase. "Stone Blue" itself is a powerful anthem, embodying the band's signature sound and their ability to craft crowd-pleasing material.
6. Night Shift
Following up their breakout Fool for the City record, the Night Shift album was a highly anticipated release that, thankfully, did not disappoint. In fact, three tracks from this stellar album make our top 10 list. The title track, "Night Shift," stands out at number six. This album marked the debut of Craig MacGregor on bass and was produced by Dan Hartman, a former member of the Edgar Winter Band.
5. Chateau Lafitte 59
This killer track has long been a favorite among Foghat's most devoted followers. "Chateau Lafitte 59" is a testament to the band's ability to craft intricate and engaging rock songs that resonate deeply with their core audience. Its inclusion here speaks to the depth of their catalog beyond the radio hits.
