Cross Road

Description

Do you know James Joshua Whiting? Perhaps he himself has forgotten the first name his parents gave him one day in December 1949, in New York, where he was born and later played his first melody on what would become his favorite instrument: the harmonica. Thus, Sugar Blue was born. For many years, James, now known as Sugar Blue, perfected his technique through countless encounters, sessions, and concerts, some more fruitful and rewarding than others. His collaborations were numerous, notably with Louisiana Red, Johnny Shines, and Roosevelt Sykes. Yet, Sugar Blue’s name, like that of his peers, often appeared in newspapers or on concert and bar posters, but rarely in large letters or as a headliner. This relative discretion limited his notoriety and prevented him from truly taking off. Sugar had to work various odd jobs to make ends meet, even shining shoes in Harlem. Meanwhile, some of his friends, like Memphis Slim, carved out their own paths, sometimes taking unexpected turns. After a tour in France, Memphis Slim (born in 1915 in Memphis) decided to settle in Paris. This choice was decisive, as Memphis Slim was later officially appointed roving ambassador by the US Senate. He held this prestigious role as "Ambassador of the Blues" until his death in February 1988 in Paris, where he spent his last years collecting awards and medals. Recognized as one of the architects of the "Chicago Sound," he was even made Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters by Culture Minister Jack Lang in 1986. One day, Sugar also decided to leave for Europe, attracted by enthusiastic accounts, particularly about the French’s long-standing love for jazz and blues. There, he met Memphis Slim, Mickey Baker (former guitarist for Ray Charles), and pianist-composer Booker T. Laury, all praising his talent. But, like many artists, Sugar soon discovered that Paris was far from a promised land. Upon his arrival, he faced many obstacles and setbacks. Until one miraculous day in 1977. While playing the harmonica in the Paris subway, Sugar Blue crossed paths with Mick Jagger. The Rolling Stones were in Paris, recording an album that would mark their history at Pathé-Marconi studio in Boulogne-Billancourt: Some Girls, often considered their best album with Ron Wood. At that time, the band was at an impasse, feeling that something was missing from their songs but not knowing what. Upon hearing Sugar Blue and his harmonica electrify the subway, inspiration struck Jagger. On the spot, he decided to incorporate this instrument and its talented performer into the album's unfinished tracks. In a few hours, Sugar Blue left his mark by adding his harmonica to several songs, notably