There are some great, well-known Chicago Blues artists who get a lot of attention but there are also many who are very talented artists who are underrated. We will discuss some of them in this post.
Otis Rush, Magic Sam. Jimmy Reed, J.B, Hutto, Luther Allison, Big Walter Horton, Sunnyland Slim, Eddie Taylor, Fenton Robinson, and Junior Wells are all underrated Chicago Blues Artists
Otis Rush (1934-2018) is an Underrated Chicago Blues Artist.
Otis Rush was a left-handed guitarist known for his intense, emotive style and strong vibrato.
Rush was a major figure in the creation of the West Side Sound.
His use of minor-key tunes and soul-influenced vocals set him apart.
Is song “I Can’t QuitYou Baby” is a classic example of his powerful impact on the blues genre.
Magic Sam (1937-1969) is an Underrated Chicago Blues Artist.
Magic Slim born Samual Gene Maghett, was a key figure in the West Side blues scene.
His guitar playing was characterized by a distinctive tremolo and a fiery, yet melodic approach.
Albums like “West Side Soul” showcase his innovative blend of blues with rock and roll elements.
Jimmy Reed (1935-1975) is an Underrated Chicago Blues Artist.
Jimmy Reed had a significant influence on the development of electric blues.
His laid-back singing, harmonica skills, and shuffling guitar rhythm made his music accessible and appealing.
Songs like “Big Boss Man” and “Bright Lights, Big City” were both blues and cross-over hits.
J.B. Hutto (1845-1983) is an Underrated Chicago Blues Artist.
J.B. Hutto’s high-energy slide guitar playing and impassioned vocals epitomized the raw, unpolished side of Chicago blues.
His work, especially with his band The Hawks, captures the gritty essence of urban blues.
Luther Allison (1939-1981) is an Underrated Chicago Blues Artist.
Luther Allison’s style was intense and energetic.
He was known for his powerful live performances and extended guitar solos.
His career in America was relatively underrated compared to his later fame in Europe, particularly in France.
Big Walter Horton (1917-1981) is an Underrated Chicago Blues Artist.
Horton was admired for his virtuosic harmonica playing, characterized by a soulful tone and innovative technique.
He was a sought-after session musician and played with many blues greats, but his solo work often didn’t receive the recognition it deserved.
Sunnyland Slim (1907-1995) is an Underrated Chicago Blues Artist.
Born Albert Luandrew, Sunnlyland Slim was a central figure in the Chicago blues scene as both a musician and mentor.
His piano playing and singing were foundational in the development of the Chicago blues style.
Eddie Taylor (1923-1985) is an Underrated Chicago Blues Artist.
Taylor’s steady, rhythmic guitar playing was crucial to the sound of many Jimmy Reed hits.
His style was quintessential Chicago blues, and he helped shape the city’s musical landscape.
Fenton Robinson ((1935-1997) is an Underrated Chicago Blues Artist.
Robinson’s style was more polished and jazz-influenced than many of his peers.
His guitar playing was nuanced and sophisticated, blending blues with soul and R&B elements, as heard in his famous song “Somebody Loan Me a Dime.”
Junior Wells (1934-1998) is an Underrated Chicago Blues Artist.
Wells was known for his innovative harmonic technique and charismatic, stage presence.
His collaborations with Buddy Guy are legendary but his solo work also demonstrates his prowess as a blues musician, particularly in its classic album “Hoodoo Man Blues.”
Conclusion
These artists each brought their unique voice and style to the Chicago blues,. influencing not just the genre, but also the wider musical world.
Their contributions continue to resonate, inspiring new generations of blues musicians and fans alike.