Jan Akkerman - Streetwalker

[@ronwhite6180]

I discovered Jan Akkerman in my youth. His mastery of the guitar stills blows me away. Simply brilliant!

[@privateinformation2960]

i discovered jan akkerman about a year after the robocop remake came out and have been hooked ever since. i regret nothing.

[@hannesstuber222]

hokus pokus :))

[@paullevine1813]

Nothing new to those who have known Jan from his days with Focus, He simply is one of the best players to ever strap a guitar on.

[@enniobardella7326]

Agree totally

[@paulbuxton1326]

Awsome one of the best ever.

[@peterschenk5614]

@@paulbuxton1326 Lol....by far the best

[@steveberti7060]

You can never get enough of my favourite guitar player Jan Akkerman

[@chrisdaviesguitar]

never thought I'd hear of a strap on in that context :)

[@tonycross6541]

An absolute legend. Had the pleasure of seeing him in the UK Salford Quays a few years ago. !!

[@juanclavel644]

Con 12 cuerdas también....😊

[@wpsconsult]

Jan Akkerman knocked me off my feet when I first saw him play live on Midnight Special in 1973. Simply the best guitarist I have ever heard.

[@stanflahaut1893]

In the same style check out Alan Holdsworth RIP

[@sommelierramon]

He is.

[@jeffmetzelaar]

Jan is simply the BEST! Unmistakeable style and certainly someone that will never be forgotten in music history. Proud to be Dutch...

[@rondegroot1508]

What a drummer, light, precise and super steady, letting others shine.

[@thebrooklynbrothers]

Ton Dijkman One of the best in The Netherlands

[@buddyvanspankeren8255]

Yeah they always forget the other players of the band ....of course jan is the no 1 but without the others its nothing ....thats why jan picked the best for his team

[@rondegroot1508]

​@@buddyvanspankeren8255 By far the best Dutch drummer for me is Paul van Wageningen, who unfortunately died too young, no idea if he ever played with Akkerman. Drums on this track, head is wrong with Erskine. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqfRo4Z6jsacpLc

[@sommelierramon]

Absolutely. You heard it right, sir !

[@aschule5684]

I too love great drummers that know how to enhance the musicians they play with and where to shine and when to fall back into it. Great dynamics, chops, and instinct!

[@dpcealla]

Akkerman is unique. His picking style is out of this world!!!!

[@jremil58]

Jan Akkerman is a master. His early work with Focus, and especially on their live At the Rainbow album was simply amazing and that was back in 1973!

[@renaatdeckers6670]

Indeed. Live at the rainbow.is the most epic.live thing I heard. And believe me.i saw .a lot.

[@briankrause624]

There are guitar players, but only a few guitar masters. Mr. Akkerman is a master.

[@raychoquette5221]

Now that paco is gone he's closer to the best

[@ronaldwilliams6431]

Tommy Emanuel is THE master.

[@palpalonpalpalon]

paco de lucia is THE master of masters

[@tonycarruthers9556]

Had this tune floating around my head for the past 30 years or so, never get tired, or board of it truly stands the test of time, late night cruising,few spiffs not a care in the world about as good as it gets

[@nielsanderson4926]

Hey I can tell you that he’s been floating in and around my life for the past 40 years since he thought me a little bit about playing and his brother kokkie was my best friend unfortunately he committed suïcide hurts me till today

[@socksumi]

Props to the rest of the band for fantastic job of backing up Jan's greatness. Great musicians all.

[@gus3247365]

The master at work with his amazing group ...love it !

[@annegonzalez2704]

First heard him in the 70's. So glad he's still jamming like this.

[@hennyvandeven9057]

Ik volg Jan als gitarist vanaf eind zestiger jaren en heb hem al vele malen met verschillende bands en muzikanten zien optreden. Maar deze opname is mijn favoriet, een heerlijke beat met gevarieerd en onnavolgbaar en gevarieerd gitaarspel. Topmuzikanten met Jan als de muzikaal leider en spelbepaler. Henny vd Ven Maarn

[@exaltica]

Ik vind die bassist eigenlijk wel erg goed. Verder weer de voorspelbare egotripperij van Jan. Technisch wel weer niets om op aan te merken maar ik mis de passie.

[@SandervanKasteren]

Saw him 3 times the last years and he's always on fire. He really seems to enjoy playing as much as he did in the sixties.

[@7000bass]

Apart from Jeff Beck, Jan Akkerman is, in my opinion, the most important guitarist out there from the early days to now. His awesome dedication to his playing pays off 1K fold. Enjoy

[@klausschilling9855]

That is very true, but I have to confess he is „just“ the runner-up as nobody comes even close to what Jeff Beck did

[@bmepdoc9675]

@@klausschilling9855 quite arguable. everything musical being 'subjective', I (personally) would rate Albert Lee over Beck. When comparing iconic guitarists like Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Brian May, it's important to note that each of these guitarists has their own unique style and contributions to the world of music. While Page, Clapton, Beck, and May are known for their work in rock and blues, Albert Lee's focus on accuracy and precision and also in the eclectic world of - wait for it... 'country rock' sets him apart. Each of these guitarists has left an indelible mark on the music world in their own right, and it's difficult to directly compare their talents as they have all made significant contributions to the art of guitar playing in their respective genres. In reference to 'not even close' - outside the metal, or R & R box, there's Roy Clark and the inimitable Glen Campbell. Campbell and Clarks mastery was again (arguably) without peer in their own respective way, considering Campbell's ability to shred on a 12 string as if from another planet. Campbells abilities had such a profound impact, EVH was absolutely spellbound and often asked his opinions on many technique oriented issues. Knopfler also conceded the guitar world is woefully incomplete or inaccurate unless it includes Campbell and Clark in the upper quadrant. Let us all revel in the incredible music ALL of these proverbial savants have blessed us with. It would be foolhardy to consider Jan Akkerman as 'lesser' in anything. They're all premiere virtuoso's. Akkerman was considered the best guitarist to walk the planet in the early 70's, an era he shared with the above mentioned phenoms.

[@oldgoattheantichrist3468]

John McLaughlin influenced both of these guys big time and is still the GOAT

[@rolffleck5369]

Diese Virtuosität,Spielfreude,Musikalität-einfach hinreißend,atemberaubend,absolute Weltklasse. Ich ziehe meinen Hut!

[@hollandseherdergijs9101]

En een goede drummer

[@persjogren-gulve8563]

Jan, simply (put), you're playing on the strings of my heart 💖🎈 Through your responsive/dynamic playing & musical spirit, you have made me see the treasure of music and creativity, also within myself. Wholehearted & loving thanks!💖 You are (simply put, again) outstanding/unique.🤗🎈

[@Aardcore]

I have never. NEVER, heard of this man before till tonight when I saw him mentioned through another YT video comments about a John Pettruci song sounding similar to this guy's playing and I had to check him out. So glad I did. Such beautiful tones, gorgeous composition and just an overall amazing groove. I wish I'd known about this guy way earlier in life.

[@onsmam11]

+Arthur Gardner My son (14) is going to see Jan Akkerman tonight in a cafe in eindhoven holland... I am so proud he is finally gonna meet this guitar god !! and when your at it... go listen to Jimmi Rosenber..another dutch miracle on guitar

[@skithewhitestuff]

+Arthur Gardner Check out the Dutch band Focus from the 70's with hits such as Sylvia and Hocus Pocus, he's always been great.

[@Jeroen3052]

+Arthur Gardner check Braibox from end 60's

[@Viartis]

I've been a fan of Jan Akkerman for 45 years, since 1972, which is when he first came to prominence. He has produced so much good music. He is as good a composer as he is a musician.

[@evertvanderhik5774]

I've seen him 3 times live.

[@JuliaCharles-u8v]

OMG IVE BEEN LOOKING FOR THIS SONG MY MOM HAD HIS ALBUM YES IM TELLING MY AGE AND PROUD OF IT YES SIR NEVER GETS OLD THANKS 90.9 FM ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@scottmatheson2390]

One of the best jazz rock guitarists to ever come out of Holland and one of the most unsung as far as I'm concerned.Such a great player.

[@khandrum]

One of my fave seen him at Rotterdam '72 with Focus opening act for Beck,Bogart & Appice guess what Jeff Beck was watching him from the balcony seat with open admiration for this Dutch master

[@scottmatheson2390]

good story.I lived in Europe during those years as a teenager but unfortunately never got a chance to see Focus although I did see a lot of other great acts.It's easy to imagine Beck digging Jan's lyrical and passionate playing style and I bet he wasn't alone as far as that higher echelon of rock guitarist was concerned even if they didn't happen to come right out and say it.There are very few players who have inspired me like these guys have at one time or another.There is something almost "regal" about a great rock solo and only a few have legitimate claim to that rarefied high ground.Rock royalty! Hmmm I think I'm gonna throw Hamburger Concerto on!

[@voice_of_reason5604]

Or come out of any where for that matter

[@jublaim]

I agree. And want to add the guitar player/leader of Gruppo Sportivo, Hans Vandenburg; although not jazz rock he did very cool things.

[@paulwall1981]

What a amazing guiatr player, playing such a outstanding piece of music. I really think Akkerman is underratted. He is a brilliant guitar player and this is one of his best works.

[@fredgien]

He was considered the best guitarist of the world in the early seventies……

[@ArnaudSiemons]

@@fredgien Bladiblah

[@6filmman]

Ik heb Jan voor het eerst zien spelen met Focus in Leiden. Dat was ergens in 1973, dacht ik. De rillingen liepen toen over mijn lichaam door zijn fantastisch en vindingrijk gitaarspel. Sinds dien ben ik mijn leven lang al een groet fan van Jan. Fantastische gitarist.

[@hs7695]

Ein wirklich spannendes Stück Musikgeschichte.

[@stanuitm.7749]

the guitarist with a unique style... and unique riffs....playing one of his favourite songs

[@socksumi]

When Jan plays it's like the guitar speaks to you.

[@bachicg207]

Exactly. you know he's playstyle is so inspiring for me as for guitarist. totally amazing .

[@mikevenios]

One of the finest live music pcs ever. I've been J. Akkermamn's fun since I can remember! All the musicians in this performance are cool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@persjogren-gulve8563]

Outstandingly tasteful and excellent!👍💖 Pure joy to hear & see and follow the blend of varied nuances. I love his playing, ever since the 1970s! He gives you journeys of discoveries! And you hear it's Him. And not the least, loving compliment to the band!🎈👍

[@sheliacrosby191]

Streetwalker is one of my top 5 favorite songs of all time. I wish I could hear him do this live.

[@川井ヒカル]

Jan Akkerman’s great guitar performance has survived about 50 years. Amazing！

[@amatrixa2923]

His self titled album remains to this day as one of my all time favorites. Perfect from start to finish! Love Jan!!!

[@peterschenk5614]

Best of the best, unique sound. Worldclass, my all time hero!

[@bobrosenburg988]

Jan Akkerman is master of the guitar. He is ranked at the very top of the list in best guitarist ever in my book.

[@LiLsisz]

he sure is...

[@isScoobyDooby]

Bob Rosenburg Absolutely, I would rank him with Django, Beck,Holdsworth,Tony Rice,Paco,Hendrix,SRV,Metheny,Tommy Emmanuel...etc. Jan is imperious and a Joy to listen to.

[@thomascoffey1306]

font forget shawn lane /alen holdsworth

[@shaunkelly9860]

Some guitarists made me want to pick a guitar up, I've been playing for forty years, and Jan Akkerman still makes me want to throw my guitars away. He is just masterful.

[@pmarijn90]

Jimmy Rosenberg is insane 2! Great guitarist

[@bertramlefarge69]

Love Jan, one of the best and his European flavour just adds that extra je ne sais quoi.

[@Pakash8]

Dear God, please...never let funky jazz disappear!

[@sirfarquhar4441]

Focus 1973 at the Scope in Norfolk- The best I ever saw !

[@yannimohamed2349]

Wow, just frikkin wow!! Dude didn't play a single note that bored me from start till the end. This man knows his instrument like no other and plays it all the same. What mad skills!

[@robster7316]

Kicks ass! Jan's the man. His picking is so fluid and effortless. Thanks to the cameraman for the great up close view! Tight band behind him too. Looks like they're having fun!

[@westwal1]

Remember this song driving in the mountains of France , every hill went along with this G-piece.

[@unterwant]

Jan jantastic the joy of listening is jantastic !!! 🎼🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶

[@kvxmgshredder94]

Saw him live in Carré 2 days ago along with 11 other guitarists, Jan is by far my favourite.

[@traubentaucher4035]

.... einfach nur phantastisch und zeitlos ...🎶☀️💫🎶

[@rossdonald594]

I never cease to marvel at his musicality........ Thank you Jan.

[@mennobults6464]

Yeah, isn;'t he great. I am a big fan of Jimmy Page, but Jan is something else. From another planet. Many other fantastic guitarplayers say so.

[@p.d.stancil1635]

One of my favorites. Got the 1977 album when it came out. Great jazz-rock fusion. He was and is one of the very best.

[@HugeGene]

One of the greats.. for sure. I need to keep being reminded of how fab he is. Thanks for this.

[@dex-o8s]

as you watch jan display his exelence on the guitar...its obvious....that there has NEVER been another human being ....on the planet that can do what he does!!!

[@noway742]

Guthrie Govan...

[@designerguitar]

I saw Focus at the Cavern in Liverpool - I'll never forget that night

[@JohanFransen]

Lucky You!! What year was it?

[@madbebopper]

Yes, Jan Akkerman is a king of the guitar. He has an incredible feel, amazing sound, fantastic technique and a conception of music that brings together so many styles into an incredibly personal sound. He is without category and a true master. More people in the US should be aware of him. You never see him in the guitar magazines. But you should.

[@christredwell5137]

What A leading Artist in Dutch Music and Have 9 Albums and also more with other Dutch bands he formed of worked with over the years. Brilliant At His Trade !!!! Chris Tredwell Birmingham UK

[@alexanderwes5204]

It's always remarkable to see the camera turns away when musicians are doing something great at that moment ... :-(

[@awboat]

It started with the camera work with the Allman Brothers. Duane/and/or Dickie is jammin away and the camera is showing Butch Trucks' face. Argghhh

[@josvansuchtelen9743]

I follow him since the late 1960´s as he was a member of the Dutch Rock Band "FOCUS", he belongs still to the best world wide.

[@Soundchaser2010]

I remember reading an interview in Rolling Stone magazine with Eric Clapton and when he was asked who he considered a craftsmen of the axe, he replied Jan Akkerman and has the upmost respect for him as one of the best guitarist around.

[@hulldanfan]

That's ironic because Jan has, on occasion, made disparaging remarks about Clapton. I wont post them here, but they are easy to find

[@Soundchaser2010]

hulldanfan that's too bad...doesn't change a thing for me, both have my upmost respect as masters.

[@2011littlejohn1]

hulldanfan strange I remember a Focus interview when they all praised every member of Cream.

[@jadipeperzak4034]

I can't find no disparaging remarks about Clapton, could you give me an example of what Jan said??

[@markschattefor6997]

+Jadi Peperzak Jan vond/vind Clapton overgewaardeerd, en volgens Jan was Eelco Gelling een betere bluesgitarist.

[@isScoobyDooby]

Certainly one of the Hundred finest guitar players and musicians I have heard. In the early 70's, no one, and I mean NO ONE , could shred like Jan. he was at least 10 years ahead of everyone I had heard.Just compare Jan's early to mid 70's work with Beck, Mahavishnu, etc. He was a Giant.He's almost an old man, and look how he plays. F_E_C_K

[@DetroitDee89]

Scooby Doh - I would suggest you check out George Benson and Wes Montgomery - then reconsider your comment about shredders from the 70’s...

[@joygrinder]

Check out the band TOAD also from the 70's the shredding is out of this world

[@1glassMilk]

I like the way the bass player always seems happy when he plays!

[@bertramlefarge69]

'cause he's got a job lol. Only joking great player, great backing.

[@Gabriel60FT]

His feelings and techniques fit perfectly at the moment!

[@santana9154]

Saw Focus in the early 70's and as paul Levine mentioned: one of the best shows I've ever seen in my life Jan Ackerman was a monster guitar player at the time who did not get the recognition that he was due. They blew my mind and I thought it was only me that thought that those shows were that great.

[@emilianobellachioma2513]

Nothing to say... Just Remain listening .. just listen what comes from inside..... thanks, Jan...

[@andzwe]

I can understand some folks long back for Akkerman's Brainbox and Focus days, but I'm glad he didn't get stuck into the 60s and 70s and developed as a musician, since then.

[@annuvynarawn392]

OMG and I never knew he did jazz/rock fusion. I am gonna buy loads of his stuff. I really liked Focus. Guess what ? I really like Brand X too. What a mix. I like loads of the old 60's and seventy's fusion too. This band seems like a cross between Brand X and Weather Report or stuff like that. Lovely use of guitar, he has fine touch and lovely impro. Hi to all fans of stuff like this, it cheers me up a lot in these dark and complicated days.

[@hulldanfan]

Annuvyn Jan's recorded output covers more Genres than any other player. If I could recommend the following;- 'Focus In Time' - My fave guitar album - Everything from lilting acoustic to orchestral Shred 'Jan Akkerman' - Self titled, contains this song. 'Tabernakel' - Medieval inspired classical and Rock 'CU' - Jans work with DJ and electronic sampling - Awesome playing and a fab album 'Passion' - Double live acoustic solo album 'Pleasure Point' Jazz inspired There's so much more, but a good list to start with

[@kamakirinoko]

Annuvyn Arawn You're not alone. It is dark, it is complicated. I listen on headphones to a part of my youth . . . Jan and Focus, 1975 . . .

[@khandrum]

+Annuvyn Arawn u got good taste mate

[@jimcos4109]

Birth is amazing...from a great album

[@stephenhodgson3506]

If you think he is good on the guitar you really should listen to him playing the lute. the man is a master craftsman

[@massimo52185]

another monster of rock jazz....incredible.

[@Jdonam]

Tell me , who else :)

[@commonsensehill372]

From Focus... to this. He searches the fretboard... plays like a natural. Listening to his style... is refreshing.

[@marionnefranck9768]

ook hij is heerlijk ouder geworden en toch nog een super ...........geen woorden voor !!!!! love it !!!!

[@malcolmlowe1935]

I've been listening to Jan since 1971. He was a genius then and now he's even better.

[@abrahambreton4768]

Awesome Jan, stick around for thousand more years.

[@SonicsRevenge]

that is one heavy thick pick, yet holds it lightly...I had this album when it came out, I got into jazz back in the mid 70's in high school...but I was into Focus when I heard Hocus Pocus growing up, glad this popped up in my feed!

[@paulinealbert7259]

Amazing Jan Akkerman!! Awesome performance!!

[@watsontr]

Probably my favourite guitarist since I saw Focus twice in '74 and once in '75. I could listen to Hamburger Concerto all day long most days. Superb guitar work. Especially on Birth

[@lesbutterworth]

Hi Tom,,yes hamburger concerto a classic,,saw focus at reading festival 1974

[@wimvangils7878]

Volg hem ook al heel mijn leven en moet bekennen dat Nederland een formidabele gitarist heeft voort gebracht.

[@michaelcunningham1484]

taught him everything he knows ! lol the best Axe man ever seen him live Birmingham 73

[@AceOfHeart2012]

Jan Akkerman and Zal Cleminson (The Sensational Alex Harvey Band) are two of those rare gems virtually unknown to American audiences. Jan is truly a master if the instrument.

[@hulldanfan]

different every time you see or hear this song - and always brilliant !!!!

[@franzmarcvanderheusen2610]

Traumhaft wie die zusammen spielen Genial !!!

[@nicloetje]

Kan ik me alleen maar bij aansluiten, was prachtig om naar te luisteren

[@hoofhearted3035]

Started listening to Focus in the early 1970's. Still a Master guitarist, without a doubt!!!

[@rolffleck1249]

Das ist der Groove..wo man mit muß! Rythmus-Dynamik-Virtuosität-Improvisation vom Feinsten! Jan Akkerman ist mein Gitarrenfavorit- Kompositionen von Jan und seine eindrucksvolle Technik an der Gitarre lassen keine Wünsche mehr offen! Absolute Weltklasse!!!

[@hansvanrooij4077]

This is do good.Not only the guitar but the music,Fantastic

[@lisalakenman4863]

Jan took me into the "LOVE TRAIN" and it was amazing!

[@paulwall1981]

This is brilliant. No more needs to be said. Jan is a true star.

[@Gabriel60FT]

He play sweets, agressives, sexies, subtles, dissonants, tuneds and crazies notes. All at the same time! How does he do? My God.....his imagination is too broad!! Jan Akkerman from 40 years ago....a GENIUS.

[@tonitawalker1222]

Wish I was on stage with them!!!! Absolutely one of my favs.

[@jr55ful]

the sound quality here is fantastic. thanks.

[@bjornkok29]

good old Jan!!!!!!thx for sharing with us fanta!!!!! h

[@Mike383HK]

His choice of notes is terrific! Playing with his band is clearly a blast!! First time I saw him play with Focus in 73 I was blown away!! I still love the way he plays!! Also his guitar is so sensitive!! You can hear everything good and bad, but he never chokes. He makes a mistake and just keeps going!! George Benson chokes like a ten year old and never recovers!!

[@ArnaudSiemons]

Ha... funny guy!! Is that why Benson has been out there forever and still going strong?

[@sjirk]

George Bensen chokes like a ten year old?? can't believe you wrote that kind of shit! that's really disrespectful and i don't think Jan Akkerman would see that as a complimentation!

[@jeanlouisvilleret8246]

SUPER!! SUPER!! mais qu'ils sont bons ç'est musiciens! c'est Excellent!!que que du bonheur a voir et a entendre !Bravo Bravo!!.

[@schutzhelmut7383]

Ganz starke Live-Performance! Jan´s definitiv bester Song!

[@williamacuna3996]

I was listening/watching "Music Choice" on Comcast Xfinity and in the bio part, Christ Standring listed Jan Akkerman and Larry Carlton as influences. And I thought "Jan Akkerman?" So I looked him up and WOW, am I impressed! Why have I never heard of him before?

[@HCBMD]

William Acuña be happy, now you do know him

[@rw4273]

Incredible playing!!

[@peteperry5712]

Been a follower of one of the most versatile guitarists, originally of Brainbox out of Amsterdam in the 60's, then Focus, then ...the rest is history,,, i would recommend researching all his albums as he can play anything fro Lute to Jazz.

[@toinechristophers8769]

Originally of The Hunters: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4C4pWmjZs6irpY

[@MartyFavento]

One of the most amazing 10 minutes of my life!!!

[@dex-o8s]

he was a child prodigy at 13 years old....he was running circles around anything the rock and roll wourld....had to offer!!

[@iancrombie8862]

Best guitarman of the 70s and beyond!

[@peterperry268]

36 yrs later via many incarnations,still the true Pro. Lekker Jan

[@neilgordon8145]

JA really continued to develop his technique and style, as did Jeff Beck, but regrettable that many of their contemporaries didn’t, churning out the same stuff, but with less commitment, interest or dexterity. Great recording highlighting just what an exceptional guitarist he continues to be.

[@lclaughton]

Very nice bass work! Downright wonderful I would say!

[@orlandowilson4325]

Great playing and what a beautiful guitar that is. Those strings sound super slinky!

[@dante777666777]

I drifted over here from the Midnight Special video to find out more about Jan...this guy is phenomenal!

[@Europeanfriends]

In the top 5 of the world for many years !

[@manguera9]

Ian Akkerman had to phases one in the beginning of Focus..amazing rock guitar playerthe second phase was in Mother Focus album which was a different style..but the solo guitar in" hard vanilla " was very jazzy and he played with the heart.

[@rmoraespinto]

What an original player! Playing like that over such simple chord changes! Tks for the upload.

[@grahamt33]

I met him and shook his hand -a very humble man -anyone I mentioned of my other guitar heroes -he already knew them and had played with them !!!!!!!!!!! -He is unique -I just wish he sang [he has a very acceptable voice] and wrote a few more original tunes