Chicago Blues Legend Koko Taylor, R.I.P.

Chicago Blues Legend Koko Taylor, R.I.P.
June 3, 2009
Rev. Keith A. Gordon
About.com

Chicago blues legend Koko Taylor, known internationally as the "Queen of the Blues," passed away on Wednesday June 3, 2009 as a result of complications from a recent operation. Taylor had undergone surgery in Chicago on May 19th to fix a gastrointestinal bleed, and according to a previous post on her website, was originally expected to make a full recovery.

Taylor made her last public appearance a couple of weeks ago, singing her signature Chess Records hit "Wang Dang Doodle" in front of a thrilled audience at the 30th Blues Music Awards show in Memphis, Tennessee. Taylor walked off stage that night with the award for "Traditional Blues Female Artist of the Year," her 29th W.C. Handy/Blues Music Award, more than any other blues artist. Taylor was also a Grammyâ„¢ Award winner and the recipient of a NEA National Heritage Fellowship Award, and was honored by induction into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1997.

Over an amazing career that spanned 45+ years, Taylor carved out her own niche in the male-dominated blues world. One of Chess Records' most popular artists, Taylor was a master of all media. The bawdy blueswoman appeared in several films, including Blues Brothers 2000, and performed on television several times, including Late Night With David Letterman and Late Night With Conan O'Brien. Taylor remained a creative force at the time of her death, her critically-acclaimed 2007 Alligator Records album Old School widely considered to be one of her best, and earning Taylor a Blues Music Award for "Traditional Blues Album of the Year."

Taylor overcame poverty, tragedy, and physical infirmity to become one of the most popular blues singers in the world, male or female. Her dynamic live performances and recordings have influenced countless young musicians, including artists like Bonnie Raitt, Shemekia Copeland, and Susan Tedeschi. Taylor is survived by her husband, daughter, and other family members. Her presence in the world of the blues will be missed greatly.