Lurrie Bell (Illinois)

Born in 1958, the son of famed blues harmonica player Carey Bell, Lurrie Bell picked up his father’s guitar at age of five and taught himself to play. He was clearly gifted. He also grew up with many of the Chicago blues legends around him. Eddie Taylor, Big Walter Horton and many more were frequent visitors to his house. They all helped to shape and school him in the blues, but none as much as his father’s long-time employer Muddy Waters.

By seventeen, he was playing on stage with Willie Dixon, in 1978 Bell joined Koko Taylor’s band – and the rest, with a few breaks along the way, is history.  Not only was he recognized as an exceptionally talented guitarist and musician, his knowledge of different blues and gospel styles, his soulfulness, technical chops and his musical maturity have garnered him acclaim and numerous awards and nominations over his long and impressive career. 

At last count Bell has appeared on over 50+ recordings either as leader or featured sideman. His elegant and intense guitar playing and passionate vocals have earned him a reputation as one of the “leading lights” in the future of the blues. He is a favourite at clubs and festivals around the world, and we are excited to now welcome this living Chicago blues guitar legend to ours.