Blues fans around the world are mourning the death of guitarist and vocalist Jimmy Johnson, who passed away on January 31 at the age of 93. Johnson moved to Chicago in 1950 and became a mainstay of the local scene, playing regular gigs into his nineties. Initially a pianist and gospel singer, Johnson began playing blues professionally in the 1970s, when he toured with major acts such as Jimmy Dawkins and Otis Rush. Johnson’s sweet voice, soulful guitar work, and down-to-earth personality made him a club favorite. In 2016, he was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, and three years later, at what would be Johnson’s final appearance at the Chicago Blues Festival, mayor Lori Lightfoot declared June 7 to be Jimmy Johnson day.
WDCB’s Leslie Keros put together this tribute, with excerpts from a 2016 interview with Johnson, along with comments from WDCB blues host Tom Marker and from guitarist Dave Specter.
Information on Johnson’s public visitation and funeral service are below:
