John Bell Discusses Future Of Widespread Panic

2017 marks a big change for Widespread Panic as the band focuses on multi-night runs and festival appearances instead of extensive tours. Last year was the group’s 30th anniversary and they hit the road hard to celebrate with their eyes on toning down time on the road this year. Guitarist/vocalist John Bell talked about what happens from here in a new Jambands.com feature.

When asked if the plan to play 20-25 shows each year is just for 2017 or for the future, Bell makes it clear the 2017 template will be used “for the rest of our existence”:

John Bell: We’ve been together for 30 years. After 30 years, and still knocking it out, this is the way we could still play together, be together, and be with our families. We ain’t spring chickens. This is the way to have the best of both worlds: quality time with the families and also get your yah-yahs out on the road.

Bell also told Jambands the band isn’t done recording yet, “In discussion, we’ve said we want to record some more, and put an album together. We usually do that when we feel we’ve got the material and the opportunity, time-wise. I think everybody’s still doing what they do; still writing separately or together, to put stuff together. We haven’t become a Widespread Panic cover band, yet. I think there is going to be new music. That is still part of the picture.”

Widespread Panic returns to the stage on Friday at the Wanee Festival in Live Oak, Florida and then play two sets on Saturday and two sets on Sunday at Atlanta’s SweetWater 420 Festival. Head here for more from John Bell on playing festivals, family time and more.