Public Project
Living the Blues in Chicago
Summary
Chicago blues took the raw, acoustic sound of Delta blues and electrified it, creating a powerful, amplified style that fit the energy of urban Chicago. Pioneers like Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon and Howlin’ Wolf defined the genre, while virtuosos like Little Walter revolutionized harmonica playing with amplified techniques.Guitar players such as Elmore James, Luther Allison, and Buddy Guy refined the styles. This gritty, soulful sound heavily influenced rock and roll, inspiring legends like The Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton.These musicians continue the blues tradition today in Chicago.
The musician pictured in this essay continue the Chicago Blues tradition in the city and can be seen performing regularly in music venues throughout the Chicago area. Some played with some of the all-time greats, like John Primer for Muddy Waters. They are the last generation that came from the South during and after the great migration, coming to Chicago to make it in the promised land of Blues.
I collected these photographs over the last 12 years in Chicago' Blues Clubs, street festivals and blues festivals.
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