James Cotton (73) tracked down Sonny Boy Williamson after listening to his King Biscuit Time radioshow in the 1940's, traveled with the harpmaster and proved a quick learner. He recorded a few singles in the early 1950's, but his most important work was as a sideman with Howlin' Wolf and Muddy Waters. Just listen to his precise tones on the background of Wolf's Sun singles. Around 1966, James left Muddy to form his own band, frequently working with rock performers like Steve Miller, Paul Butterfield, Johnny Winter and Elvin Bishop, and opening for them at San Francisco's Fillmore auditoriums. That should have been the opposite, but that's the way it was in those days. James was a master showman who worked his harps to the limit, but his rough voice was no match for his fantastic harmonica playing. Later, Cotton's voice deteriorated and there were some recordings that shouldn't have been released.

But... there are some essential albums that you can't, and should not ignore. Start looking for "100% Cotton", a rockin' disc with explosive versions of 'Boogie Thing' and 'Rocket 88'. His best recordings can be found on the Alligator releases "High Compression" (with a.o. Pinetop Perkins and Magic Slim) and "Harp Attack" which unites Cotton with fellow blues harpists Junior Wells, Billy Branch and Carey Bell. The Antone's release "Mighty Long Time" spotlights the bandleader on 'Baby Please' and 'They Call It Stormy Monday', even in the presence of other famous bluesmen such as Pinetop Perkins, Matt Guitar Murphy and Jimmie Vaughan. James Cotton works hard on stage and sweats a lot. That's why I would recommend to have a real cool Belgian Trappist when you listen to him, let's say a Chimay, Rochefort or Orval, just make your choice. See ya'll next week guys!

Video: James Cotton - The Creeper

Websites:
http://www.jamescottonsuperharp.com
http://www.alligator.com/index.cfm?section=artists&artistid=9
http://www.myspace.com/jamescotton55
 
100% Cotton - One Way 1974
High Compression - Alligator 1984
Harp Attack! - Alligator 1990
Mighty Long Time - Antone's 1991

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