4 Tracks: Discover the Songs That Shaped MC5’s Wayne Kramer

Wayne Kramer has certainly influenced his share of guitarists having founded the seminal Detroit punk band MC5, but his own interests are quite diverse.

Here, Kramer chooses four songs that helped shape his unique style:

1. The Ventures: “Walk Don’t Run” — Walk Don't Run (1960)

“This whole album just has really masterful playing throughout. I love the tone of these really accomplished players. I’ve always loved the Ventures.”

2. Albert Collins: “Sno Cone Part II” — Single (1965)

“This song just rocked me to my core. It’s not just the guitar playing—although that is spectacular—but it’s the rhythm section and the horns and the way the whole thing falls together. It swings so hard that it inspired me for so long. It still inspires me. I just listened to it and thought, ‘Man, I need to get this Albert Collins thing going more in my stuff.’”

3. James Brown: “There Was a Time” — I Can't Stand Myself When You Touch Me (1967)

“The guitar players in James’ band slayed me. They just hit so hard on this song. Everyone is completely syncopated. They’re playing things that are completely different, but it all fits dynamically. It gets quiet, it gets loud. It’s just a brilliant performance. One of those few times when everything clicks.”

4. Miles Davis: “Right Off” / “Yesternow” — Jack Johnson (1971)

"Mahavishnu John McLaughlin was the only guy in the early phases of what later became fusion that actually understood where the music could go. I think he brought Miles Davis along. Miles wanted to do something, but I just think that Mahavishnu was so ahead of the day. His playing was so revolutionary and his technique is formidable. He’s even scarier nowadays!"

Click here for more information on Kramer’s foundation, Jail Guitar Doors, which aims to provide musical instruments and opportunities to help rehabilitate prisoners.