Ted Nugent recently discussed his musical influences and approach to performing. He shared his thoughts on Little Richard’s legacy in an interview on Real America’s Voice.
The 76-year-old rock guitarist spoke about his ability to hit high notes and his dedication to rhythm and blues. He credited his longevity to understanding his own limitations.
“If I play ‘Wango Tango’, which is the greatest white guy’s attempt at Little Richard — I’m the only white guy that ever got close to Little Richard — yeah, I can still hit those high notes because I’m a man that is influenced by the greatest philosopher of all time, Dirty Harry, when he said, ‘A good man knows his limitations,'” Nugent said.
“So if I start out with the high screaming songs like Sammy Hagar does every song, then I can hit those high notes. But again, I’m 77 this year. This is outrageous, and this is my hunting beard, so I look older than I really feel. But the music is so inspiring.”
Nugent also emphasized his deep connection to his music and the influence of soul and rhythm and blues legends on his performances.
“I love my music. I love my music more than anybody loves my music. [I’ve got] Jason Hartless on drums. Johnny ‘Big’ [Schoen] on bass guitar. It’s out of body, soulful, just so intense, so irreverent, so defiant, so grooved, so Motown, so James Brown,” he continued. “So it doesn’t matter what songs I play, where I play them, they all have a life of their own… It’s all about letting it rip, when you’re gonna play rock and roll. We consider every concert an audition to be in James Brown’s band. My musicians are so gifted, so dedicated. They have an indefatigable, Herculean work ethic, and they love rhythm and blues, soul music, James Brown, Wilson Pickett, Little Richard, my hero. So every night is the most important concert of our lives, and I’ve done 7,007 of them and I can’t wait for 7,008.”
The comments were made during his appearance on TPUSA’s All-American Halftime show.
Nugent’s career spans decades as one of rock’s most recognizable figures. He is known for his blistering guitar work and energetic performances. Born December 13, 1948, Nugent has maintained an active touring schedule well into his seventies. He continues to headline festivals and amphitheaters across America.
Nugent rose to prominence with the Amboy Dukes before launching a successful solo career in the 1970s and 1980s. He helped define wild, riff-driven rock with hits like “Stranglehold,” “Cat Scratch Fever,” and “Wang Dang Sweet Poontang.” His influence remains strong in classic rock circles.
Johnny Schoen, known as “Johnny B,” has played bass for Nugent for many years. He remains a cornerstone of his touring band as of 2025. Jason Hartless, an accomplished rock drummer, formerly played with Nugent in the 2010s and early 2020s. Nugent continues to make regular appearances on talk radio, podcasts, and media outlets. He maintains his status as one of the most colorful and controversial figures in American music and culture.
