Doctor Ross, also known as "The Harmonica Boss," was a formidable figure in the blues scene, known for his distinctive one-man band setup. Born Charles Isaiah Ross on October 21, 1925, in Tunica, Mississippi, he became well-versed in the harmonica and guitar, crafting a sound that was authentically rooted in the Delta blues tradition. His style was characterized by a raw and rhythmic blend that captured the essence of the genre, often accompanied by his own vocals and percussion played with his feet.
Ross's career took a pivotal turn when he moved to Memphis, where he worked as a radio DJ and recorded for Sun Records, among other labels. His song "Boogie Disease" became a signature tune and is often cited as a classic example of his infectious boogie rhythms and unadulterated blues harmonica playing. In the 1950s, Doctor Ross moved to Michigan, where he worked in a Flint auto plant and continued to perform his music. Despite his relocation, his music always remained deeply connected to his Mississippi roots. Throughout his career, Doctor Ross recorded several albums and singles that showcased his unique blend of blues and boogie, including "The Harmonica Boss And His Juke Box Boogie" and "Blues and Boogie from Detroit (Live)," leaving a lasting legacy on the blues genre before his passing on May 28, 1993.
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