By Julia Kazar

James Cotton

James Cotton

Blues singer James Cotton is one of the most influential blues musicians ever.  And even though he just celebrated his 75th birthday, the singer/songwriter still continues to make music and tour to this day.  Although performances may not be as frequent as they once were, they are still just as powerful as when Cotton first started out.

James Cotton’s has been interested in music his whole life, one of his earliest memories is of his mother making chicken and train sounds on a harmonica.  When he was a little older he met the great Sonny Boy Williamson and essentially began opening for him, although because he was so young this meant playing just outside of the club.  When Williamson left his band to reunite with his wife, he left Cotton, who was barely a teenager, in charge of the band.  From there he began playing the blues harp in Howling Wolf’s band.  Around this time Cotton also began to record a few solo albums of his own.  His next career move was to become the harmonica player for Muddy Waters.  Even though Muddy used another harmonica player for most of his recordings, it was Cotton who played during many live shows.  Eventually Cotton’s abilities outgrew what Waters needed him to do so he began focusing again on his solo career.  As he grew and developed as a musician, Cotton has become known for having an incredible stage presence and immersing the audience in his music.

Be sure to come see James Cotton on July 24th when he plays The Kent Stage as part of the Kent Blues Festival.  Also on the bill that night is Guy Davis, another legendary blues artist.  Tickets are only $25 be sure to get yours now so you don’t miss this once in a lifetime blues show.

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