Official selection of RSD Black Friday UK – Buddy grew up in Rialto, California, and in 1968 joined George Harmonica Smiths band alongside Rod Piazza and others. They became the house band at Smalls in L.A., backing legends like Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters, T-Bone Walker, and Jimmy Reed. Touring as Bacon Fat, they recorded in England with Fleetwood Macs producer, Mike Vernon, and toured the U.S. with Big Mama Thornton. Buddy later toured with Little Richard before forming his own trio, Th’ Rip It Ups. Known for passionate vocals and fiery slide guitar, Buddy’s influences include Muddy Waters and Elmore James. He was inducted into the Arizona Blues Hall of Fame in 1998 and honored for his blues legacy.
“Tough Enough” complete’s Buddy Reed’s transformation from sideman to frontman. This debut record dropped in 1985, engineered by Bernie Grundman. The record sees its first ’40th anniversary’ reissue, with expanded liner notes, rare photos and a personal note from the artist.

Format / LP
Released / 03/06/2026
Catalogue /
Barcode / 741869405307
Artist /Buddy Reed
Label /Red Lightnin’ Records
Genre /Blues