Forrest McDonald stands as a musical storyteller, bridging hearts with songs that echo the soul. Known for his roots in blues and blues-rock, Forrest’s evolution into a singer-songwriter showcases a personal, introspective artistry that invites listeners into his world. Transitioning from the "Forrest McDonald Band" to a solo focus, he crafts songs that explore love, hope, hard times, and faith. Rooted in blues and blues-rock, with hints of Americana and folk, Forrest’s music connects heart to heart, reflecting the pulse of everyday life. With Songs from My Soul, he delivers a timeless sound that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable.
The McDonald home was in close proximity to the location of the Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals, where the musical talent on display consumed Forrest—he saw Ray Charles and Leadbelly perform and caught Bob Dylan’s controversial switch from acoustic guitar to electric. Backstage at Newport in 1969, Forrest played Jimmy Page’s Les Paul, trading licks with Page and Jeff Beck” it was incredible,” McDonald recalls.
Forrest McDonald’s remarkable six-decade journey in music began in Austin, Texas, where he was born in 1950. His career took root at age 15 in Rhode Island. He drew inspiration from blues icons like Josh White, Jimmy Witherspoon, and T-Bone Walker through his family’s record collection. Forrest played his first gig on New Year’s Eve 1964 with Seagram’s Seven. His early exposure to the Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals shaped his musical direction. He saw performances by Ray Charles, Leadbelly, and Count Basie there. He also witnessed Bob Dylan’s shift to electric guitar. These experiences ignited a lifelong passion for music. Now based in Richmond, VA, Forrest has evolved into a masterful blues-folk-Americana singer-songwriter and storyteller. He is celebrated for his authentic narratives and soul-stirring performances.
Forrest’s career gained momentum in New England with his first band, The Ox Bow Incidents. In 1969, he joined The Boston Rock Symphony. There, he met blues harmonica great James Montgomery, who also played in the ensemble. They blended rock and classical music for eager audiences. At 20, Forrest toured with Wadsworth Mansion. The band opened for acts like Alice Cooper and Edgar Winter, performing their hit “Sweet Mary, I’m Coming Home.” In 1973, he moved to Los Angeles and reformed the band as Slingshot. They played iconic venues like The Whisky and The Starwood. During this time, he performed with Bonnie Bramlett, Kathi McDonald, Doris Troy, Marie Franklin, Silver Platinum and Gold, and Jimmy Reed Jr. He served as band leader for the Kathi McDonald Band, touring the West Coast extensively. While in LA, he studied at the Guitar Institute of Technology. He also attended Dick Grove Music Workshops. These experiences sharpened his skills. Additionally, he joined a band called Bookends with keyboardist Raymond Victor and Drummer Rob Robertie. They toured all over Asia and had a ball.
A pivotal trip to Muscle Shoals, Alabama, changed his path. Forrest joined the legendary Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section. He recorded the guitar solo for Bob Seger’s “Old Time Rock & Roll.” It became Seger’s biggest hit. The song appeared on three platinum albums: Stranger in Town, Greatest Hits, and Ultimate Hits. These records sold over 15 million copies. He also backed Bobby Womack on “The Roads of Life.” He has traded licks with blues giants like Duane Allman, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page. These collaborations solidified his reputation as a journeyman guitarist.
Later, he moved to Atlanta, GA. There, he founded World Talent Records, his own independent record label. His debut CD, I Need You (1995), featured Tony Carey (Rainbow) and Steve Perry (Journey). His discography now spans dozens of recordings. His 16th release, Songs from My Soul (2025, World Talent Records), marks a shift to a solo singer-songwriter focus. It explores personal, universal stories of love, hope, hard times, and faith.
Acclaim has followed Forrest globally. He has performed for over 200,000 fans as a headliner, he has entertained fans across 13 countries. Real Blues Magazine named his band “Best Southern Blues Band” from 1999 to 2001. They also dubbed him “Best Modern Southern Guitarist” in 2002. Just Plain Folks awarded him Best Blues Album for Spirit of the Blues in 2000. He won Best Blues Song for “Work, Work” in 2001. In 2006, “Going Back to Memphis” earned the same Best Blues Song honor. Forrest is an inductee of the Boston R&R Hall of Fame. His 15 CD’s have reached over 20 million listeners. It blends vintage Chicago and Texas blues with country soul, R&B, roots, and Americana. With Songs from My Soul, Forrest McDonald remains a timeless voice. He connects emotionally with fans through every heartfelt note
Genre
Blues-Rock / Singer-Songwriter / Americana
RIYL (Recommended If You Like)
Eric Clapton, JJ Cale, Bonnie Raitt, Chris Stapleton
ALL INQUIRIES CONTACT:
Deloris Ward or Forrest McDonald (804) 477-4488
FORREST McDONALD is available
exclusively through World Talent
Records and Entertainement
(804)
477-4488 phone and fax
For more information E-mail World Talent Records