Explore the life and legacy of John Lee Hooker, the iconic bluesman who shaped the sound of American music. In this podcast, we journey through the fascinating story of a Mississippi sharecropper’s son who became one of the most influential figures in blues history. From his innovative one-chord boogie style to his impact on rock and R&B, Hooker’s music continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

Uncover his early days in the Mississippi Delta, where he drew inspiration from his stepfather, blues guitarist William Moore, and crafted his first makeshift guitar. Learn how he ran away at 14, finding his path in Memphis and Detroit, where his unique electric blues sound thrived in local clubs. With hits like “Boogie Chillen’,” “Boom Boom,” and “Dimples,” Hooker captivated audiences and defined a new era of blues music.

We’ll dive into his inventive musical techniques, including his improvisational tempo, driving boogie rhythms, and raw, percussive guitar style. Hear about his collaborations with legendary artists like Canned Heat, Van Morrison, and Carlos Santana, which brought his music to new audiences and inspired rock greats like The Rolling Stones.

This podcast also explores the challenges Hooker faced, from navigating the complexities of the music industry to overcoming personal obstacles like illiteracy. Despite these hurdles, he became a prolific lyricist and a global icon, earning multiple Grammy Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and induction into both the Blues and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame.

Join us as we celebrate the enduring influence of John Lee Hooker, a true trailblazer whose music continues to inspire and evolve. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the blues, this is your chance to connect with the story of a man who didn’t just play the blues—he lived them.

Elmore James: King of the Slide Guitar

Step into the electrifying world of Elmore James, the legendary "King of the Slide Guitar." In this podcast, we delve deep into the life, music, and legacy of a blues pioneer whose distinctive sound reshaped the genre and inspired generations of musicians. From his humble beginnings in rural Mississippi to his rise as a revolutionary force in electric blues, Elmore’s journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and raw talent.

Discover how his early life in the Mississippi Delta, steeped in the rich traditions of blues, set the stage for his groundbreaking career. We explore his transformative years, where a combination of military service and technical ingenuity led to the creation of his signature amplified slide guitar tone—a sound that still reverberates through music history.

Relive the moment Elmore’s iconic hit “Dust My Broom” skyrocketed him to fame, and hear how his powerful performances with bands like the Broomdusters captured the soul of Black America. Through interviews, stories, and rare recordings, we unpack the techniques behind his bottleneck slide mastery, his innovative use of open tunings, and the urgency in his vocals that moved audiences to their feet.

Beyond his music, we shine a light on Elmore’s influence on blues and rock greats, from Eric Clapton to The Rolling Stones, and even Frank Zappa. Learn about the challenges he faced in an exploitative music industry, his dedication to his craft despite personal and professional obstacles, and the enduring legacy he left after his untimely death at just 45 years old.

With exclusive insights and historical context, this podcast celebrates the artistry, innovation, and soul of a true blues icon. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the blues, join us to uncover why Elmore James remains one of the most revered figures in music history.

Step into the soulful world of Blind Lemon Jefferson, a true pioneer whose high-pitched voice and intricate guitar riffs forever changed the landscape of music. In this podcast, we explore Jefferson’s life, his groundbreaking contributions to the blues, and the indelible mark he left on the genre—and on music as a whole.

From his humble beginnings in rural Texas as a blind child of sharecroppers to his rise as one of the first successful solo male blues artists in the recording industry, Jefferson’s story is as raw and authentic as the blues itself. Relive the nights in Deep Ellum, Dallas, where Jefferson serenaded crowds until the early hours, and journey to Chicago, where he recorded some of his most iconic tracks, including “Matchbox Blues” and “See That My Grave Is Kept Clean.”

In each episode, we delve into the vibrant history of blues music, uncovering its roots in the Mississippi Delta and tracing its evolution into a genre that gave birth to rock and roll, soul, R&B, and beyond. Through Jefferson’s story, we’ll illuminate the lives of other blues legends who lived, played, and thrived in the genre’s heyday. What does it mean to be “authentic” in the world of blues? How did these artists navigate the commercialization of their craft in the early recording industry? And what made Jefferson’s style so unique that even decades later, his influence continues to resonate?

Whether you’re a seasoned blues aficionado or a curious listener eager to learn more about the roots of modern music, this podcast offers a rich, immersive experience. Tune in, and let Blind Lemon Jefferson’s legacy guide you through the stories and sounds of the blues.