Symbolically, mojo is any kind of luck. “Got my mojo working” means you’re having good luck attracting women (or men, if that’s your preference).
How does race factor into blues both in the past and in the present? The stereotype, or at least my stereotype, is that it’s a traditionally black dominated culture but many of the blues singers who are younger seem white.
The blues originated as an African American music, but it’s been embraced by all cultures around the world. It’s true, there are a lot of white blues musicians these days, and a lot of white blues fans. But it’s absolutely untrue that blacks have rejected or abandoned the blues, as I hear some people say. I don’t know what it’s like in other cities, but here in Chicago, blues musicians and fans come in all colors and ethnic backgrounds, and that includes black.
In terms of age, in general, young people aren’t interested in the blues. It’s a kind of music that most people don’t seem to get until they’re older. And so, a “young” blues musician may be 40 or 50.
What did you learn by writing this book?
I was amazed at the depth and breadth of blues talent in Chicago. My book contains 84 biographies; I could have easily written three times that many.
My favorite parts were the tips for jamming (both for the musician and the fans), which I’m going to share with my local musician friends) and the part about the Chicago Blues Festival. Which part was your favorite?
I loved researching about the old blues clubs and record labels. There’s a rich history there just waiting to be delved into. And, of course, I loved visiting the clubs, seeing the shows, and interviewing the artists.
How did you decide which musicians and clubs to include in the book?
I included every club I knew about where the blues is played.
Selecting the musician bios was harder. As I said, there are hundreds of musicians. First, I limited it to people living or near Chicago. I chose mostly bandleaders, although I included a few more prominent sidemen. Then, I tried to pick those who were most active on the club scene.
What are you working on next?
I’m working on my blog mostly.
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