3. That blues musicians are illiterate, innocent, untrained, poor country folk. I doubt that was true for many bluesmen a generation ago. I know it's not true today. The majority of today's blues musicians are college-educated and have studied music and are as business savvy as anyone else.
What was the hardest part about writing this book?
Waiting for it to be published. First, I am a newspaper journalist, and I'm used to seeing what I write get printed within days. Secondly, the music scene changes quickly. Clubs opened, clubs closed, artists died, new ones came on the scene.
Do you think blues music gets the respect it deserves or is it too often marginalized?
It's definitely and deliberately marginalized by media. Blues records don't get played on popular radio shows. Even on the so-called "Jack FM" stations, where they supposedly play a variety of genres, you won't hear any blues songs in the mix. Record label owners and musicians have told me that labeling a record "blues" is a like a kiss of death with radio programmers. Why? How can a music be rejected if it's not even listened to?
At the same time, it's difficult for blues musicians to get CD and concert reviews in major newspapers and magazines. On the rare occasion it happens, the writers focus on the already well-known blues musicians like B.B. King and Buddy Guy. Not that these guys don't deserve the attention - but the writers are overlooking the younger and new blues
musicians who also deserve coverage.
I won't make you pick one favorite blues musician since that might be impossible. How about instead you tell us about a few blues musicians that you think everyone should know?
1. Lurrie Bell. He's the son of harmonica great Carey Bell, who died recently. Lurrie's played for years, but now at 48, he's reached his prime. He's clearly the most powerful and most innovative blues guitarist out there today.
2. Nick Moss and the Flip Tops. Contemporary Chicago blues that's well-grounded in the Chicago blues tradition.
3. Li'l Ed and the Blues Imperials. Named "Band of the Year" at the Blues Music Awards last year. Great entertainment, great party music.
4. Nora Jean Bruso. Heir apparent to Koko Taylor's title as "Queen of the Blues." Powerful voice, incredible stage presence, prolific songwriter
For more information on the book, check out Karen's blog which serves as a companion to this book. Stay tuned for the second half of the interview.
Article comments
1 - jean luc vabres
Hello from France,
Why always focus on the great musicians who performed always in the touristic north side ? How about the west and side part of Chi-Town ? There are great clubs too ! How about such performers as Willie D, Tony Brown,Smilin'Bobby, Bobby Too Tough, Sonny Mack, Cyrus Hayes, and many many more. You want to hear some real good music when you're in Chicago ? Go only to the parking close to the Wallace's Fish Corner located on W.Madison on friday or saturday night, you will have a real great night !
2 - Scott Butki
Hello, France. I asked Karen to swing by and respond to your question.
3 - Karen Hanson
Hi Jean Luc, I know the musicians you are referring to. Indeed, they are very good. Thank you for mentioning them. I would add to your list L.T. McGe, Al Harris, West Side Wes, Little Al Thomas, Mary Lane, J.W. Williams, and the inimitable Holly B. Maxwell.
I do think the North Side gets treated unfairly when people dismiss it as "touristy." The musicians who play regularly at those clubs also often play at clubs on the South and West Sides, let's not forget. And many, such as Jimmy Johnson and John Primer, have unquestionable credentials.
4 - Scott Butki
Part two is now up.