“I miss not having a “middle ground” where musicians have time to really hone material. It seems like there just isn’t a place in the business for this type of organic development. The pace of everything has gotten ridiculously fast and faster.“

Greg Piccolo:

Who Knows What the Future Holds

Multi-award-nominated musician Greg Piccolo released his new album, “Who Knows What the Future Holds” (2026), on MoMojo Records. Produced by the legendary Terry Manning, known for his work with artists ranging from ZZ Top to Shania Twain, Who Knows What the Future Holds marks a significant shift: a deliberate concentration from Piccolo as a singer and songwriter. Drawing from a vault of previously unreleased material, the album presents eleven songs that reflect a lifetime of experience capturing joy and hardship, humor and heartbreak, all delivered with emotional clarity and an enduring sense of rhythm. The recording process with Greg’s band, (Heavy Juice) plus special guests, however, carried added weight. Manning, whose warmth, humility, and creative instincts helped shape the sessions at Sonic Ranch Studio in El Paso, Texas, passed away suddenly just after sending the first mix for review. Completing the project became both a challenge and a tribute, with careful effort taken to preserve Terry’s production vision while bringing the album to completion.

(Greg Piccolo / Photo by Karo Achten)

Musically, Who Knows What the Future Holds presents introspection with infectious energy. The songs indicate personal reflection, but they also move, being rooted in groove, rich in clever storytelling and alive with a spirit that has carried Greg through more than 60 years on the road. Now, at 75, Piccolo enters a new and deeply personal chapter. Throughout his career, Piccolo has earned multiple Blues Music Award nominations and induction into the New England Music Hall of Fame. He has shared stages and studios with an extraordinary range of artists, including Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Pat Benatar and Big Joe Turner, further solidifying his reputation as a world-class musician.

Interview by Michael Limnios                         Special Thanks: Mark Pucci Media

How has the music influenced your views of the world? What moment changed your music life the most? 

As someone who has played music for over 60 years, I can only say that the people I play for can tell if the music is honest and I certainly try to be honest and fortunately for me it’s great to see people responding positively to the music, no matter where they are from. So for me, it’s a beautiful world. 

There have been many moments that have influenced and changed my life in music. I can’t say there’s one thing but many things.

How do you think that you have grown as an artist since you first started and what has remained the same about your music-making process?

I’ve been enriched along the way by all the great artists I have fallen in love with through the years. The lesson I have learned? Can’t hum it then don’t play it. 

What keeps a musician passionate after six decades in blues and jazz music? How does your hometown that affect your music?

The whole world should be playing music and it would be a better place.

What were the reasons that made New England music scene in the 60s/70s to be the center of Rhythm & Blues, Swing, Blues researches and experiments?

For me Duke Robillard was the reason. He was and remains a strong leader, who influenced many of the artists from New England. 

Are there any specific memories or highlights of your career that you would like to tell us about?!                                                (Greg Piccolo / Photo by Joseph A. Rosen)

When I was still in Roomful we played a jazz club in Beverly, Massachusetts called Sandy’s Jazz Revival. We were backing up Eddie Cleanhead Vinson and Count Basie walked in! He told me I sounded like Illinois Jacquet - my favorite sax player!

Playing at Carnegie Hall in NYC with Stevie Vaughan and having my parents there to see the show!

What do you miss most nowadays from the music of past? What are your hopes and fears for the future of?

I miss not having a “middle ground” where musicians have time to really hone material. It seems like there just isn’t a place in the business for this type of organic development. The pace of everything has gotten ridiculously fast and faster. It’s sad to me. I hope I’m around to see it change!

What are some of the most important lessons you have learned from your experience in the music paths?

Through the years you must follow your heart. 

Why is it important to we preserve and spread the blues? What is the role of music/musician in today’s society?

The blues isn’t going anywhere.  It shows up in all kinds of music… blues, jazz, rock and country. If something about music moves you, it’s probably the blues.

Greg Piccolo - Home