Charles Baty, co-founder and guitarist for Little Charlie & The Nightcats, has decided to enter into semi-retirement from touring after the band's March 2008 European tour.

Little Charlie & The Nightcats were formed 32 years ago when harmonicist/vocalist/songwriter Rick Estrin teamed up with Baty in 1976. In the early years 'Little Charlie and the Nightcats' backed up Big Mama Thornton, Tiny Powell, Charles Brown, Sonny Rhodes, Albert Collins, Floyd Dixon, John Lee Hooker, Gatemouth Brown, Pee Wee Crayton, in addition to performing their own shows at festivals.

The band recorded 10 albums for Alligator and has been one of the most in-demand and consistent draws on the Blues circuit.

Estrin will continue to pursue his own projects and tour with current Nightcats drummer J Hanson and bassist Lorenzo Farrell. Baty plans to rejoin the band for special one-off dates, some overseas tours, Blues cruises, and select North American festivals.