06/04/2026
ROCK LEGEND ARMOND BLACKWATER STILL RIDING THE MUSIC HIGHWAY AT 73
ARMOND BLACKWATER BIRTHDAY BASH SUNDAY JUNE 7
By Guy Buckmaster, Buck Pro Media
INGLIS, FLORIDA — Some musicians retire. Others simply keep rolling down the highway.
At 73 years old, Armond Blackwater continues to do what he has done for more than six decades: make music, entertain audiences, and prove that age is no barrier to passion.
Born on June 1, 1953, Blackwater recently celebrated another birthday while remaining active in Florida’s thriving live music scene. Today he calls Inglis, Florida home, but his musical journey stretches across some of the most memorable eras in American rock history.
For many classic rock fans, the most notable chapter of Blackwater’s career came when he performed with the legendary rock band Steppenwolf. During the late 1970s, Blackwater served as a keyboard player during a period when the iconic group continued touring and carrying forward the legacy of timeless hits such as “Born to Be Wild” and “Magic Carpet Ride.”
For a musician who grew up during the birth of rock and roll, joining a band that helped define the genre was more than a career milestone—it was a place in rock history.
“Born to Be Wild” became an anthem for generations of motorcycle riders and road warriors, making Blackwater’s connection to Steppenwolf especially meaningful to Rider Now Magazine readers. Few musicians can claim a direct link to one of the songs most associated with freedom, motorcycles, and the open road.
Yet Blackwater’s story extends far beyond a single band.
Over a career spanning more than 60 years, he has performed thousands of shows, worked with numerous artists, and developed a reputation as an accomplished keyboardist capable of moving seamlessly through rock, blues, country, and Southern Rock. Fellow musicians describe him as a seasoned professional whose experience and musicianship continue to impress audiences and performers alike.
Today, Blackwater’s professional appearances and artist representation are managed by Buck Pro Media, which works to preserve and promote the legacy of veteran performers while creating new opportunities for audiences to experience their music. Through Buck Pro Media, Blackwater continues to appear at special events, concerts, festivals, and Southern Rock showcases throughout Florida and the Southeast.
One of the highlights of recent years has been sharing the stage with Michael Allman, son of Southern Rock legend Gregg Allman. Through performances alongside recording artist Wayne Scott Brown, Blackwater has participated in recent concerts that celebrate the enduring legacy of Southern Rock while introducing that music to new audiences.
These appearances brought together musicians from different generations, united by a common appreciation for authentic American music. Audiences witnessed not only outstanding performances but also a living connection to the roots of Southern Rock.
For Blackwater, those appearances represent another chapter in a career that continues to evolve. From the early days of rock and roll to performing with the son of one of Southern Rock’s most iconic figures, his musical journey remains remarkably relevant.
Away from the stage, Blackwater enjoys life on Florida’s Nature Coast, where the slower pace of Inglis offers a welcome contrast to decades spent performing and traveling. Yet anyone expecting him to hang up the keyboard would be mistaken.
Music remains central to his life.
That passion will be celebrated on Sunday, June 7, when friends, fans, fellow musicians, and members of Florida’s motorcycle community gather for Armond Blackwater’s Birthday Bash at Scooter’s Haven Country Club in Inglis, Florida. The public is invited to attend and celebrate one of the region’s most respected musicians.
Providing the entertainment for the celebration will be The Barker Boyz, one of Florida’s favorite live music acts, promising an afternoon of great music, friendship, and tribute to a performer whose career spans the very history of rock and roll.
In an era when many performers from rock’s golden age have retired, Armond Blackwater continues to do what he loves—playing music, entertaining fans, and preserving a piece of America’s musical heritage.
For motorcycle enthusiasts, road travelers, music lovers, and classic rock fans alike, Blackwater represents something increasingly rare: a musician whose career spans the evolution of American rock and roll itself.
At 73, he remains a living reminder that while the years may pass, the spirit of rock and roll never grows old.
And like the riders who continue chasing the horizon, Armond Blackwater shows no signs of parking anytime soon.
For additional information regarding Armond Blackwater appearances and events, visit BuckProMedia.com.
Thank you Rider Now Magazine, The Barker Boyz and Lou with Scooter Haven for your support and encouragement of our friend and yours the fabulous Armond Blackwater Mr B3, luv ya brother, Guy
