Before embarking on a solo career in the 1970s, Winwood became something of a legend as a member of three influential bands. First, he played organ with The Spencer Davis Group (his older brother played bass, later became a producer). In 1967, he left TSDG to form Traffic. Finally, he joined Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker, and Ric Grech in the short-lived supergroup Blind Faith. The three groups could boast a combined total of only four big hits, but they are monster classics that every self-respecting rock music fan must know. All four songs have been extensively covered by other artists, big names and small.
Winwood’s solo act didn’t take flight until 1980, but when it did, it really caught wind. By then, his style had changed dramatically, and apparently was tailor-made for eighties’ music fans.
Two more things you should know… Winwood wrote or co-wrote all of these songs (to the best of my knowledge). Also, there are two version of Valerie listed below, the original 1982 version and a 1987 remix. I never realized there was more than one, but it seems there are fans who insist the remix version is better, so I included both to avoid receiving any vitriolic hate mail. (Thank you for not sending any.)
1966
Gimme Some Lovin’ (2:58)
The Spencer Davis Group
1967
I’m a Man (2:57)
The Spencer Davis Group
1968
Dear Mr. Fantasy (5:34)
Traffic
1969
Can’t Find My Way Home (3:19)
Blind Faith
1980
While You See a Chance (3:56)
1982
Still in the Game (4:28, cue start :28)
1982
Valerie (4:13)
1986
Higher Love (4:14)
1986
Split Decision (6:01)
1986
Take It As It Comes (5:25)
1986
Freedom Overspill (5:38)
1987
Back in the High Life Again (4:22)
1987
The Finer Things (3:42)
1987
Valerie (remix) (4:08)
1988
Put on Your Dancing Shoes (5:14)
1988
Roll with It (4:31)
1988
Holding On (6:17)
1989
Hearts on Fire (5:18)
1990
One and Only Man (5:03)
1990
Another Deal Goes Down (4:59)