BOOM BOOM

Description

John Lee Hooker (1917-2001) is, without a doubt, one of the greatest blues musicians. His career truly took off in 1949 with the release of "Boogie Chillen." The single reached number one on the rhythm and blues charts and sold a million copies. Two years later, he achieved another million sales with "I'm In The Mood." With his mix of singing, spoken word, and catchy rhythms, he captivated African-American record enthusiasts. Added to this was his amplified electric guitar, which allowed him to create an innovative and revolutionary sound. Hooker mainly played solo during this period. He was sometimes accompanied by musicians like Eddie Burns, Boogie Woogie Red, and Eddie Kirkland. In the following years, his popularity grew through numerous recordings and tours, but in a non-linear fashion. After a career setback in the early 1950s, Hooker and the original country blues style gained traction with young white students and intellectuals by the end of the decade. In the early 1960s, Hooker also gained popularity in the pop world. During the rise of rhythm and blues in England, he even charted. In 1980, he was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, and in 2009, his hit "Boom Boom" also received this honor.