Bobby Rush, born Emmett Ellis Jr. on November 10, 1933, in Homer, Louisiana, has established himself as a towering figure in the blues and R&B scenes for more than six decades. With his roots in the Southern blues tradition, Rush has evolved his sound over the years, incorporating funk, soul, and more into his music, making him a versatile and enduring artist in the American music landscape.

After relocating to Chicago in the 1950s, Rush became part of the vibrant local blues scene. His career began to bloom in the 1970s when he found success with his distinctive "folk-funk" style, a blend of traditional blues and funk rhythms that captivated audiences. Over the years, his raw and electrifying performances, paired with his prolific songwriting, have garnered him widespread acclaim. Notable albums like "Rawer Than Raw" embody his deep connection with the blues, while singles such as "Chicken Heads," which celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special release, have solidified his status as a blues legend. Rush's dedication to his craft and his ability to innovate within the genre have earned him numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album in 2017. Despite being well into his eighties, Bobby Rush continues to record and perform, his music a testament to the enduring power and ever-evolving nature of the blues.

Genres

Soul Blues

Southern Soul

Related Artists

B.B. King

Howlin' Wolf

Muddy Waters

John Lee Hooker

Buddy Guy

Albert King

Junior Wells

Jimmy Reed

Taj Mahal

Freddie King

Little Walter

Robert Johnson

Latest Release

99 And 1/2 Won't Do

Bobby Rush•

The Blind Boys Of Alabama

Single - Released July 19, 2024