Henry Paul (The Outlaws/Blackhawk)
S5 / Episode 14
About this episode
Few artists embody the spirit, resilience, and evolution of Southern rock quite like Henry Paul.
A founding member of Outlaws and later the driving force behind Blackhawk, Henry’s career bridges two distinct eras of American music—each rooted in storytelling, musicianship, and a deep sense of place. From the triple-guitar attack of the "Florida Guitar Army" that helped define the Outlaws’ sound in the 1970s to the multi-platinum, chart-topping Country success of Blackhawk in the ’90s, his journey is a masterclass in reinvention without compromise.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Henry reflects on the rise of Southern rock, the realities of life on the road, his relationships with Ronnie Van Zant and Charlie Daniels, and the creative instincts that carried him across decades and genres. He also shares hard-earned insights into band dynamics, longevity, and what it really takes to sustain a career in music over the long haul.
This episode also kicks off our Southern Rock Trilogy—a three-part series exploring the artists, sounds, and stories that shaped one of rock’s most enduring movements. Be sure to check back next week and the week after as we continue the journey.