Accurately dubbed "the Queen of Chicago blues" (and sometimes just the blues in general), Koko Taylor helped keep the tradition of big-voiced, brassy female blues belters alive, recasting the spirits of early legends like Bessie Smith, Ma Rainey, Big Mama Thornton, and Memphis Minnie for the modern age. Taylor's rough, raw vocals were perfect for the swaggering new electrified era of the blues, and her massive hit "Wang Dang Doodle" served notice that male dominance in the blues wasn't as exclusive as it seemed. (AllMusic) Outstanding. File under: Blues Divas.
Discography:
In the music library: Blues 29: Wang Dang Doodle
The Alligator Records 25th Anniversary Collection: Evil
Links: Wikipedia AllMusic Discogs 45cat Alligator Records
Christgau Consumer Guide NPR Koko Taylor Photo Page
Queen of theBlues: Koko Taylor Talks About Her Subjects
Obituary: Chicago Sun-Times The Guardian The Telegraph YouTube: Koko Taylor: The Life of a Blues Legend