Photo: Jeff Fasano

In his own words, Jorma Kaukonen is entering the “cresting wave” of his career. The guitarist—who helped lay the groundwork for the modern improvisational-rock world with Jefferson Airplane and continues to stretch the blues’ boundaries with his long-running Hot Tuna project—will turn 85 on December 23. And, as the Washington, D.C.-bred, Ohio-based musician prepares to mark that milestone, he’s also shifting up his touring approach after over six decades on the road.

“This is by no means a farewell; I am not retiring,” he said in a statement earlier this year. “I am calling this my cresting wave. The music remains my most profound passion, and the connection I share with you during my live performances is something that feeds my soul and I will always cherish. This change means I will be playing on a different scale. I am focusing on exploring new formats, like special one-off events in select cities, exclusive residencies and festival appearances. This new chapter will grant me the freedom to create in more innovative ways, embrace different creative opportunities, and, most importantly, perform for you when I can deliver my absolute best. I am excited about what this new format will bring and the fresh energy it will create.”