Browsing: Jimmy Reed

In this photo-rich guide, ten legendary blues artists are remembered where they now rest—beneath flowers, stone, and sky. From Dinah Washington’s bold spirit to Muddy Waters’ electric fire, each grave tells a story still humming through Chicago’s streets.

In the 1950s a young singer named Mathis James Reed failed his audition for Chess Records. He was a popular musician around Chicago, but his simple playing and straightforward songs didn’t wow the execs. Chess Records would go on to regret that they didn’t sign Jimmy Reed…

This Week in Blues Past has some big landmarks, with birthdays of powerful blues stars, a big bootleg recording, blues trail markers, and much more!

We’re celebrating a birthday today — that of the vastly influential guitarist and harmonica legend Jimmy Reed, who’s amazing music has influenced rock in an irreplaceable way.