Rest In Peace

I have a week of Chess Records artists ready to post for the nightly music piece.

This is not how I planned to start it.

ETTA JAMES

One of the greatest Blues/R&B artists EVER.

She was first discovered by Johnny Otis (who died yesterday) and followed him to Los Angeles to record and toured with him until she joined Chess Records.

With Chess Records she broke through and crossed over at a time when it was nearly unheard of for a Black artist, let alone a Black woman, to do so.

Her influence cannot be overstated.

Without Etta there is no Diana Ross, no Bonnie Raitt, no Janis or Janiva Magness or Beyonce or Christina or Amy Winehouse or Adele.

And they ALL know it.

Her first hit. The one that brought Johnny Otis' attention.

Roll With Me Henry

Something's Got A Hold On Me

Her great crossover hit. A staple at proms and wedding receptions. Still.

At Last

All I Could Do Was Cry

I Just Want To Make Love To You

One of her greatest hits. It has become a Blues/R&B standard.

It was originally released as a B Side.

w/ Dr John
I'd Rather Go Blind