Blues Image was a short-lived American rock band formed in the late 1960s. Though active for only a few years, they left their mark with the enduring single “Ride Captain Ride.” With roots in the Florida rock scene and ties to major acts like Iron Butterfly and Alice Cooper, Blues Image represents a unique chapter in classic rock history.
Despite their brief run, the band’s musical contributions—particularly their one major hit—continue to resonate.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Band Name | Blues Image |
| Formed | 1966 |
| Origin | Tampa, Florida, U.S. |
| Genres | Rock, Psychedelic Rock |
| Years Active | 1966–1970 |
| Labels | Atco Records |
| Notable Members | Mike Pinera, Joe Lala, Manny Bertematti, Frank ‘Skip’ Konte |
| Notable Songs | “Ride Captain Ride”, “Gas Lamps and Clay” |
| Associated Acts | Iron Butterfly, Alice Cooper, New Cactus Band, Ramatam, Three Dog Night, Steppenwolf |
Formation and Early Days in Florida
Blues Image formed in 1966 in Tampa, Florida. Guitarist and singer Mike Pinera, born September 28, 1948, was the driving force behind the group. Other founding members included Manny Bertematti on drums and vocals, Joe Lala on percussion and vocals, Emilio Garcia on keyboards, and Malcolm Jones on bass. However, Garcia soon left the band to pursue aviation and was replaced by Frank “Skip” Konte.
Shortly after forming, the band moved to Miami. There, they played a key role in launching Thee Image, a popular rock venue. They performed regularly and eventually became the house band. During this time, they shared stages with major acts like Cream and the Grateful Dead. This exposure helped refine their sound and build a regional following.
Move to the West Coast and First Record Deal
Hoping to expand their reach, the band relocated to Los Angeles. This move led to a deal with Atco Records, a subsidiary of Atlantic. In 1969, Blues Image released their self-titled debut album. The record showcased their blend of psychedelic rock, blues, and Latin influences, especially highlighted in songs like “Lay Your Sweet Love on Me” and “Take Me.”
Though the debut received modest attention, it helped establish the band as a creative and eclectic force. Still, a breakout hit remained elusive.
Breakthrough with “Ride Captain Ride”
Everything changed in 1970. The band released their second album, Open, which featured the standout single “Ride Captain Ride.” Written by Mike Pinera and Skip Konte, the song combined catchy melodies with a surreal storyline about 73 men sailing off to find freedom. The track featured Kent Henry on the guitar fills and solos, while Pinera contributed the soaring outro solo.
“Ride Captain Ride” quickly climbed the charts. It peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and sold over a million copies, earning gold record status. With its memorable chorus and optimistic vibe, the song became a staple of early ‘70s radio and remains a classic rock favorite today.
The Aftermath and Decline
While “Ride Captain Ride” was a major hit, the band struggled to follow it up. Their next single, “Gas Lamps and Clay,” barely made a dent, stalling at No. 81 on the Hot 100. Internal changes further disrupted their momentum. During the recording sessions for Open, Pinera left to join Iron Butterfly, a more established rock act at the time. Blues Image had toured with Iron Butterfly previously, making Pinera’s transition a logical move.
Singer Denny Correll stepped in to replace Pinera, but the chemistry wasn’t the same. The band released a third album, Red White & Blues Image, in 1970, but it failed to chart significantly. Shortly afterward, Blues Image disbanded.
What Happened After
Mike Pinera’s post-Blues Image career was full of activity. After his time with Iron Butterfly, he played with Alice Cooper, Ramatam (which also featured Mitch Mitchell of Jimi Hendrix Experience), and New Cactus Band. He later launched a solo career, releasing several albums through the late ’70s and ’80s, although they didn’t achieve commercial success. Despite that, Pinera has remained musically active and continues to perform.
Joe Lala became an in-demand session musician and played with artists like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Barbra Streisand, and The Bee Gees. He also acted in films and television. Sadly, Lala passed away from lung cancer in 2014.
Skip Konte joined Three Dog Night as a keyboardist and contributed to several of their hits during the early to mid-1970s. Drummer Manny Bertematti later played with Iron Butterfly and other bands.
Denny Correll, the band’s final lead vocalist, eventually shifted to Christian contemporary music. He released several gospel albums and had a dedicated fan base in that genre before passing away in 2002.
Legacy and Recognition
Today, Blues Image is primarily remembered for one song. However, that song—“Ride Captain Ride”—has endured. It appears in multiple classic rock compilations and soundtracks. The tune’s cheerful melody and nautical imagery give it a timeless appeal.
Though often labeled a one-hit wonder, Blues Image had the talent and creativity of a band with far greater potential. Their members went on to play key roles in more prominent groups, influencing the sound of 1970s rock in many indirect ways.
Final Thoughts
Blues Image’s story is one of a band with immense promise and one unforgettable hit. While their time in the spotlight was short, their members made lasting contributions to rock music. “Ride Captain Ride” serves as a reminder of the band’s creativity, and it continues to capture the spirit of exploration and freedom that defined a generation.
If you’re diving into classic rock history, Blues Image is a name worth knowing—brief, bright, and unforgettable.