Lightnin’ Slim
Lightnin' Slim, born Otis Verries Hicks on March 13, 1913, in St. Louis, Missouri, is a celebrated figure in the realm of American blues music, particularly known for his contributions to Louisiana blues and swamp blues. There is some debate regarding his birthplace, with some records indicating that he may actually have been born in Good Pine, Louisiana.
His early life was marked by a move to the Baton Rouge area in Louisiana around 1927, where he became involved in the local music scene. Slim's career took off in the early 1950s when he began recording for Excello Records, releasing a series of singles that showcased his distinctive style characterized by raw, expressive vocals and a gritty guitar sound. His music often reflected the rural and cultural influences of the South, and he became known for hits like "You Made Me Love You" and "Cold Weather Blues."
Throughout the 1950s, Slim gained recognition as one of the prominent figures in Louisiana swamp blues, a subgenre that blended elements of traditional blues with the unique sounds of the bayou. His performances were marked by a unique blend of rhythm and emotion, establishing him as a compelling live artist.
Despite the ups and downs of his career, including periods of relative obscurity, Lightnin' Slim remained a significant influence on subsequent generations of musicians. His work laid the groundwork for the development of southern blues styles, and he is often remembered as a key figure in the evolution of blues music.
Tragically, Lightnin' Slim passed away on July 27, 1974, in Detroit, Michigan. His legacy continues to endure, celebrated for his authentic sound and contributions to the rich tapestry of American blues music.<div hidden>Lightnin Slim Lightnin Slim</div>
Lightnin’ Slim
2 My Baby Left Me This Morning 3:52
3 It's Mighty Crazy 3:15
4 Caress Me Baby 5:16
5 I Love You Baby 3:10
6 The Sky Is Crying 6:26
7 G.I. Slim 3:15
8 Help Me Spend My Gold 3:04
9 My Little Angel Chile 4:19
10 Too Close Blues 4:03
11 I Want You To Love Me 6:42
12 Bed Bug Blues 4:03
13 I'm Tired Waitin' Baby 3:51
14 Ah'w Baby 4:48
Label: Indigo Recordings – IGOCD 2002
Format: CD
Country: UK
Released: 1992
Genre: R&B Blues
Style: Louisiana Blues
Lightnin' Slim's Blue Lightning (1992) is a key Swamp Blues compilation on Indigo Records, showcasing his raw, hypnotic Louisiana sound with tracks like "It's Mighty Crazy" & "Sky Is Crying," featuring Lazy Lester's harmonica, capturing his authentic, juke-joint-ready blues from the golden era of J.D. Miller recordings, offering fans a definitive taste of his essential swampy, guitar-driven style.
Blue Lightning isn't an original 1950s album but a 1992 compilation by the UK label Indigo, collecting his best tracks from the 1950s and 60s sessions.
Lightnin' Slim (Otis Hicks) was a major figure in Louisiana blues, known for his distinct guitar and vocal style, honed in Baton Rouge juke joints before his career-defining recordings.
In essence, Blue Lightning serves as an excellent introduction and collection of Lightnin' Slim's defining work, capturing the essence of Louisiana Swamp Blues.
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