The Lyric Leads of Willie James Lyons

West Side Chicago guitarist Willie James Lyons (1938-1980), has been a huge inspiration to me ever since I first got my hands on a vinyl copy of "Chicago Woman" on Isabel records (thank you Illinois Slim!). Willie James had a lyrical, elegantly vocal style to his playing that was instantly recognizable and very moving. This is an advanced lesson: having a strong foundation in WJL's main influences of Freddy King, Lowell Fulson and some Eddie Taylor is the starting point. Even if you're more of a beginner, I highly recommend listening to Willie James Lyons: "Chicago Woman" (also w Jimmy Johnson); Big Mojo Elem's "Mojo Boogie on MCM (also w Wayne Bennett); Johnny Big Moose Walker's "Goin Home Tomorrow" on Isabel, and Willie Kent's "Live at Ma Bea's" are all great. The MCM boxed set has some great tracks by WJL as well. I wish I could have seen him in person and I welcome anyone who knew him to share some WJL anecdotes in the comments session.

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Видео The Lyric Leads of Willie James Lyons канала Chicago Blues Network