| The Legendary Blues Band | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Chicago, Illinois, United States |
| Genres | Chicago blues, electric blues |
| Years active | 1980–1993 |
| Labels | Various |
| Past members | |
| Willie "Big Eyes" Smith Pinetop Perkins Jerry Portnoy Calvin "Fuzz" Jones Dave Myers Billy Flynn Madison Slim Little Smokey Smothers Nick Moss John Duich Willy O'Shawny |
|
The Legendary Blues Band were an American Chicago blues band, formed in 1980 after the breakup of Muddy Waters' former backing band.
In June 1980, when Muddy Waters former backing musicians decided to quit, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith (drums), Pinetop Perkins (piano), Louis Myers (harmonica/guitar), Calvin "Fuzz" Jones (bass guitar), and Jerry Portnoy (harmonica), formed the Legendary Blues Band.[1][2] Later that year they appeared backing John Lee Hooker in the movie The Blues Brothers (1980). Smith was the only band member, besides Hooker, to appear onscreen in close-up.[3] The following year, Dave Myers joined the others as a guitarist when they recorded their debut album, Life of Ease, on Rounder Records.[1] Duke Robillard guested on their second release Red Hot 'n' Blue.
With varying personnel over the years, the Legendary Blues Band recorded seven albums, Life of Ease, Red Hot 'n' Blue, Woke Up with the Blues (nominated for a W. C. Handy Award), Keepin' the Blues Alive, U B Da Judge, Prime Time Blues, and Money Talks, between 1981 to 1993. The Legendary Blues Band has toured with Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, and Eric Clapton.[3]
The more recent recordings included Billy Flynn, Little Smokey Smothers, Nick Moss, and Madison Slim amongst others, although the rhythm section of Jones and Smith remained intact through to their final release in 1993.[1]