hey koko

you were no brittney or lindsey or who ever the hell is getting kazillions of dollars for no talent. and guess what koko? i thank the goddess every day you weren't

thanks for your voice and sound. i'll always remember you

you were american music




koko taylor

Koko Taylor's memory, emotional performances pack fest
By Bob Gendron | Special to the Tribune
June 15, 2009
Local artists, old-school soul and dedications to recently deceased icon Koko Taylor characterized this year's Chicago Blues Festival, held Friday through Sunday at Grant Park.

Nobody embodied the emotional spectrum of the blues -- the devastating lows, heartbreaking struggles, spiritual redemptions and joyous highs -- better than Bettye LaVetteon Saturday night. The Detroit vocalist's primal intensity and aching timbre underscored the personal nature of her songs. Prancing around in high heels while moaning and pleading, she testified on behalf of music's therapeutic power. Her gripping a cappella rendition of "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" proved more courageous than any of the hot-rod instrumental licks or hackneyed revues heard over the weekend.

Charlie Musselwhite, a Mississippi native with deep Chicago roots, deserved a headlining slot but settled for less Friday night. Few performers had more fans pushing to the front to get a closer view. The harmonica virtuoso's quivering tones conjured the sound of wind gusting against loose window shutters, and a wiry band kept his Southern-baked honky-tonk scrappy and honest. Musselwhite's raw noise dared anyone standing within earshot not to shake their legs.........