I know I just moved to Chicago, but I’ve already witnessed the power of the blues. One of the first things I did as I hit the city was head to Buddy Guy’s, and you can feel the spirit of legends in the air. Tragically, one of those Chicago blues legends passed away yesterday. Koko Taylor, the Queen of the Blues, died following complications from gastrointestinal surgery.
Koko Taylor was the recipient of more blues awards than just about any other artist, and for more than forty years she served up traditional blues music — hot, strong, lusty, from the gut. Wang Dang Doodle was her biggest hit, but there’s something about Ernestine I just love.
If you’re new to the sounds of Koko Taylor and Chicago Blues, check out her latest album, Old School. Koko didn’t release albums often, but when she did she poured her heart and soul into them.
RIP, Koko Taylor. There must be an incredible jam session going on, past those pearly gates.
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