The History Blues Artist Productions Resume Family Portrait Comments              The "Father" of the Blues: W. C. Handy brought the world of Classical Music to the world of Blues. Wailing voices and guttural tones were finally put down on paper for all to learn. He also learned to publish his music. Born: November 16, 1873. Died: March 28, 1958 Jamesette Hawkins-Matriarch of the Blues:In 1953 Jamesette Hawkins was singing Gospel music in church. In 1954 Jamesette took the name Etta James and became a teen singing sensation. She outgrew her teens but never outgrew the sensation. A pure Blues singer, a jazz smoothie, a soulful ripper, Etta can sing it all. She takes the deepest emotion of Blues singing and administers it to any song she chooses. She has influenced Tina Turner, Janis Joplin, Gladys Knight and countless other legendary vocalists. Born: January 25, 1938 Birthplace: Los Angeles, California He Rocked The Blues:Stevie Ray Vaughan fused Blues and Rock and turned on a whole generation to the Blues. His fiery guitar playing and aching voice showed a wide audience the depths of Blues passion. To Blues purists, he is a rock player. To most other fans, he's a Blues player. But everyone agreed that they dug it. Born: October 3, 1954 Died: August 27, 1990

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