Roxy Music great Phil Manzanera performs San Francisco concert

Phil Manzanera, appearing at San Francisco’s Great American Music Hall on Thursday, February 19th, presented a striking contrast to his early image as the guitarist for Roxy Music. Dressed in a blue suit and pocket square, the 75-year-old Rock and Roll Hall of Famer – inducted with Roxy Music in 2019 – offered a retrospective look at his more than half-century career.

A Career Spanning Sounds

The evening, part of the opening night of San Francisco’s Noise Pop Festival and a “words and music” tour, centered around two recent projects: the 11-disc box set “50 Years of Music” and his 2024 memoir, “Revolución to Roxy.” Manzanera used the opportunity to reflect on his musical journey, beginning with his early life and influences.

Did You Know? Phil Manzanera began playing Spanish guitar and Cuban folk songs as a child, taught by his mother while growing up in Cuba.

From Cuba to Prog Rock

An onstage conversation with journalist Anil Prasad revealed Manzanera’s diverse upbringing, tracing his family’s movements from Cuba through Venezuela, Hawaii, and finally to London. This peripatetic childhood, he explained, deeply influenced his musical style, particularly the enduring presence of Latin rhythms in his work despite being based in the U.K. For over 60 years.

In London, Manzanera connected with David Gilmour of Pink Floyd, leading to collaborations and involvement in the prog-rock scene. He later co-founded Roxy Music with a group of artists, though his passion for progressive rock resurfaced in later projects like 801, a collaboration with Brian Eno.

Music and Connection with Fans

While the conversational portions of the show were engaging, fans particularly enjoyed Manzanera’s performances. He showcased a career-spanning medley, touching on Roxy Music classics like “More Than This,” “Amazona,” and “Jealous Guy,” alongside solo work and material from 801, all played through what he described as “the smallest amp known to man” with “the biggest sound.”

Manzanera also performed “Magdalena,” a bolero-meets-rocker from his 2015 album “The Sound of Blue,” inspired by his mother. He then played “Diamond Head,” the title track from his 1975 solo debut, accompanied by recorded tracks featuring the original musicians.

Expert Insight: Manzanera’s willingness to engage with fans both onstage and at the merchandise booth demonstrates a commitment to connecting with his audience beyond simply performing music, fostering a sense of community around his extensive body of work.

Between sets, Manzanera spent time signing collectibles and chatting with attendees, highlighting his accessibility and appreciation for his fanbase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What projects were highlighted during the show?

The show focused on the new 11-disc box set retrospective “50 Years of Music” and Manzanera’s 2024 memoir, “Revolución to Roxy.”

Where did Phil Manzanera grow up?

Manzanera spent his early years moving between Cuba, Venezuela, Hawaii, and finally London.

Who did Phil Manzanera collaborate with?

Manzanera collaborated with David Gilmour of Pink Floyd, and Brian Eno, among others.

Given Manzanera’s evident enthusiasm for revisiting his past work, what kind of new musical explorations might his reflective period inspire?