Lazy Lester, born Leslie Johnson on June 20, 1933, in Torras, Louisiana, was a prominent figure in the blues genre, widely known for his laid-back harmonica style and affable vocal delivery. Lester came to prominence in the 1950s as a key artist in the Excello Records stable, where he contributed to the swamp blues sound that emerged from Louisiana. His career was marked by a blend of blues, R&B, and early rock and roll, with his relaxed yet engaging performance style earning him the moniker "Lazy Lester."
Throughout his career, Lazy Lester collaborated with a host of blues luminaries, including Lightnin' Slim and Slim Harpo, while also crafting his own hits, like "I'm a Lover Not a Fighter" and "Sugar Coated Love." Despite a quiet period in the 1960s and 1970s when he stepped away from music, Lester's influence endured, leading to a resurgence in the late 1980s, as new audiences discovered his work. Albums like "Blues Stop Knockin'," "I Hear You Knockin'!" and "Harp & Soul" solidified his legacy in the blues realm. The release of the 25th Anniversary Edition of "All Over You" was a testament to his enduring appeal. Lester's distinctive harmonica sound and swamp blues rhythms influenced countless musicians and cemented his place as a legendary blues harpist up until his passing on August 22, 2018.
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