Recorded in 1972 at Vanguard Studios in New York, 'Hold That Plane!' was Buddy Guy's second album for the Vanguard label, following his debut 'A Man and the Blues' (1968). The title comes from a real anecdote: Guy missed a flight because he stayed drinking at a bar, and upon arriving at the airport he shouted 'Hold that plane!'.
The album combines Chicago electric blues with soul and funk influences, showing Guy's evolution towards a more contemporary sound. It includes covers of classics like 'Five Long Years' and 'I Had a Dream', as well as original compositions. Sam Charters' production sought to capture the guitarist's live energy.
Although not a massive commercial success, 'Hold That Plane!' is considered by critics as a solid work that reflects Buddy Guy's transition in the 1970s, when he struggled to maintain relevance in an era dominated by rock and funk. The album has been reissued on CD by Vanguard on several occasions.