James Cotton was one of the last links between the Delta blues and Chicago blues traditions. Influenced and taught by harmonica great Sonny Boy Williamson, Cotton first recorded for Sam Phillips on Sun Records in 1953. He replaced Little Walter in Muddy Waters band, and is heard on many of Waters' important records. He became a solo artist in 1966, forming the James Cotton Band.
Born- Tunica, MS., July 1, 1935
Died- Austin, TX., March 16, 2017
James Cotton, Chicago Blues Festival, 1999