What Have I Done Wrong (featuring Joe Bonamassa)

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin the soulful track "What Have I Done Wrong (featuring Joe Bonamassa)" by John Mayall from his 2019 album Nobody Told Me. This song, a cover of Magic Sam's 1957 classic, kicks off the album with a fiery collaboration. John Mayall, in an interview with Billboard, shared that the idea for Nobody Told Me was to feature guest guitarists, and Joe Bonamassa was a natural choice. Mayall had admired Bonamassa’s playing since his teen prodigy days, praising his aggressive yet soulful attack on the guitar. The track was recorded at Dave Grohl’s Studio 606, using the legendary Sound City Neve console, the same one used for Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours, adding a layer of historic vibe to the session. Bonamassa himself took to X in 2018, calling it an “honor and privilege” to record with Mayall, emphasizing the blues legend’s deserving spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Another tidbit from the Nobody Told Me sessions comes from Mayall’s comments to AllAboutJazz, where he described the recording process as a “nice treat for the guitar freaks.” The album, including this track, was laid down in just nine days between January 23 and February 1, 2018, when Mayall was 84 years old, showcasing his relentless passion for the blues. Bonamassa’s contribution to “What Have I Done Wrong” stands out for its searing guitar work, blending seamlessly with Mayall’s gritty vocals and harmonica. Fans on the Joe Bonamassa Forum have raved about the track’s energy, with some calling it a highlight of Mayall’s late-career resurgence. The song’s raw emotion and Bonamassa’s dynamic solos make it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic, free-spirited playlist.

John Mayall, often called the “Godfather of British Blues,” began his musical journey in the 1950s after moving to London from Macclesfield, England. Born on November 29, 1933, Mayall taught himself to play the piano, guitar, and harmonica, drawing inspiration from American blues giants like Muddy Waters and Lead Belly. His career took off in the 1960s when he formed John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers, a band that became a launching pad for legends like Eric Clapton, Peter Green, and Mick Taylor. According to his bio on johnmayall.com, Mayall’s early gigs in London clubs built a cult following, and his 1966 album Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton cemented his reputation as a blues innovator. His ability to nurture young talent while staying true to the blues’ roots made him a pivotal figure in the genre.

Mayall’s persistence and DIY ethos kept him going through decades of changing musical trends. After moving to California in the 1970s, he continued to record and tour, releasing over 70 albums. His official website, johnmayall.com, offers a deep dive into his discography and tour history. Fans can connect with him on social media through his Facebook page, where he shares updates on new releases and live shows. His Instagram features throwback photos and behind-the-scenes glimpses of his career. On X, Mayall occasionally posts about his music and the blues scene, though he’s less active there. For Zoo Freaks looking to join the fan community, the John Mayall Fans Facebook Group is a lively spot to discuss his music and share concert stories. While no dedicated fan website stands out, the Joe Bonamassa Forum often buzzes with chatter about Mayall’s collaborations, including this track.