Women blues artists have always been a major part of Chicago blues. We will discuss some of them below.
Koko Taylr, Big Mama Thornton, Bonnie Lee, Memphis Minnie, Sippie Wallace, Ida Cox, Dinah Washington Esther Phillips, and the Female vocalists who worked with Little Walter are some of the pioneering women in Chicago Blues.
Koko Taylor Was a Pioneering Chicago Blues Artist.
Koko Taylor, born Cora Walton Tennessee, became known as the “Queen of the Blues” for her commanding presence and powerful voice.
She moved to Chicago in the 1950s, where she signed with Chess Records and recorded several hits, including “Wang Dang Doodle” which became her signature song.
Taylor’s gritty and energetic performances helped solidify her status as one of the leading figures in Chicago blues.
Big Mama Thornton Was a Pioneering Chicago Blues Artist.
Big Mama Thornton was born in Alabama but spent time in Chicago during her career.
She gained fame for her deep, soulful voice and recorded the original version of “Hound Dog” which later became a massive hit for Elvis Presley.
Thornton’s influence on blues and early rock n roll is significant and the remains a respected figure in music history.
Bonnie Lee Was a Pioneering Chicago Blues Artist
Bonnie Lee was a blues singer and pianist known for her work in Chicago during the 1950s.
She recorded for various record labels and had hits like “I’m Good” and “Sad and Evil Woman.”
Memphis Minnie Was a Pioneering Chicago Blues Artist.
Memphis Minnie originally from Algiers, Louisianna, played a vital role in the development of Chicago blues.
She was a prolific guitarist singer and songwriter, known for tracks like, “Bumble Bee” and “When the Levee Breaks.”
MInnie’s guitar skills and songwriting prowess made her a respected figure in blues history.
Sippie Wallace Was a Pioneering Chicago Blues Artist.
Sippie Wallace was a blues singer and songwriter who gained prominence in the 1920s.
She had a distinctive voice and recorded songs such as “Women Be Wise” and “Mighty Tight Woman.”
Wallaces’s contributions helped shape early blues and influenced future generations of musicians
Ida Cox Was a Pioneering Chicago Blues Artist.
Ida Cox was a blues singer and vaudeville performer known for her powerful vocals and stage presence.
She recorded timeless classics like “Wild Women Don’t Have the Blues” and “Mojo Hand Blues.”
Cox’s work in the early 20th century contributed to the growth of blues as a genre.
Dinah Washington Was a Pioneering Chicago Blues Artist.
Dinah Washington, primarily associated with jazz, also ventured into blues and R&B.
Her versatility allowed her to excel in various musical styles, and she recorded “Baby, Get Lost,” a blues standard.
Washington’s impact on both jazz and blues is substantial, and she remains a celebrated vocalist.
Little Walter’s Female Vocalists Were Pioneering Chicago Blues Artists.
Little Walter a renowned Chicago blues harmonica player often collaborated with talented female vocalists.
Marion Walter Jacobs and Baby Duo Caston were among the notable women who sang alongside him.
Their contribution added depth and soul to Little Walter’s recordings.
Esther Phillips Was a Pioneering Chicago Blues Artist.
Esther Phillips, originally from Texas, had a versatile singing style that encompassed blues, jazz, and R&B.
Her rendition of “Double Crossin Blues” with the Johnny Otis Orchestra is a notable blues recording.
Phillips left a lasting mark on multiple music genres, showcasing her exceptional vocal talent.
Conclusion
These women not only shaped the Chicago blues scene but also influenced the broader landscape of blues music, leaving behind a rich and enduring legacy in the world of music,