Blues You Should Know

The purpose of this podcast will be to pull your coats to some of the influential and notable blues artists who have contributed mightily to our genre. I won’t be talking about the folks you probably already know about: Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, BB King and the like, instead we’ll explore the lives and music of some of the greats who have either become forgotten or perhaps never quite made the “A list.”. The blues has a deep and rich history and the more you broaden your listening scope the more you’ll appreciate and understand this music we all love so much.

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Blues You Should Know

Lonnie Johnson, Pt. 2

January 03, 2023 • Bob Frank • Season 4 • Episode 2

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In part two we explore Lonnie's post-war recordings and life. We hear how he adapts his music to a new era. Lonnie has his biggest hit, "Tomorrow Night" for King Records, in 1947 and becomes a favorite of British trad-jazz fans. In the '60s Lonnie has yet another comeback (he was the king of comebacks) and records a series of albums for Prestige Bluesville. Lonnie tours Europe again with the AFBF and eventually moves to Toronto. In 1969 he is struck by a car, which he survives, but leads to a decline in his health and his eventual death in 1970. Lonnie leaves a legacy of revolutionary guitar playing, brilliant songwriting, and superb singing. Hear why BB King called him the most influential guitar player EVER. Blues You Should Know is always free and available on all major podcast platforms and through the Blues You Should Know website.

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Blues You Should Know