(October 2022) Episode 447 is JOHN LEE HOOKER. A true blues superstar. A next-generation Delta Blues artist, his early recordings were primitive and powerful, which is why his Detroit years (late 40s-early 50s) are my favorite. Hooker may be best known for developing the single-note boogie; when he gets in a distorted and crunchy groove it’s just awesome. He touched almost all varieties of blues in his long recording career – electric, jazzy, pop, including many collaborations.
Favorite album: Plays and Sings the Blues
Favorite collaboration album: Hooker ‘n Heat (with Canned Heat)
Favorite soundtrack album: The Hot Spot (with Miles Davis)
Favorite song: Boogie Chillen’ No. 2
Compared to expectations: same
Recommendation: go for the early recordings and the boogie stuff, but if you’re like me you can only take so much blues in one sitting.
Opus Project 