Blues music has provided the soundtrack for many sultry nights in Chicago for over 50 years. In the 1940s and and '50s African American laborers migrated north from areas such as New Orleans to work in the factories and plants that were opening at a rapid pace in Chicago and brought the music with them. Artists such as Willie Dixon and Muddy Waters helped create the Chicago blues sound and Dan Akroyd and the late John Belushi and their famous Blues Brothers characters helped expose a whole new generation to the music. Today, you can experience the blues at a number of Chicago clubs that feature live bands and soloists every night of the week.
Rosa's Lounge was named "Chicago's best blues club" by the New York Times and "a blues mecca for true believers," by Rolling Stone. You may read this and head to Rosa's only to find a run-down club that looks as though it may not even be open for business. But when you walk in you will realize that you are really in a museum of sorts. Legend's such as David Honeyboy Edwards, Homesick James and Pinetop Perkins have made appearances at Rosa's Lounge and more modern musicians and future legends are always welcome. Live music is played every night of the week at Rosa's Lounge.
Rosa's Lounge
3420 W Armitage Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
773-342-0452
rosaslounge.com
Blues R & B is located in the Lincoln Park area of Chicago and is a popular stop for local musicians such as Son Seals, Eddie Shaw, Magic Slim and Eddy Clearwater. This club was designed to be intimate and cozy and the seating has been arranged to reflect that. You will sit close to the table next to you and your table will be on the edge of the dance floor that is butted right against the main stage. The staff at Blues R & B never takes a day of an keeps the music playing 365 days per year. Count on a dark room full of sultry sound and colorful characters at Blues R & B. A full bar serves classic cocktail. Sip on a dirty martini or a Tom Collins while you sway to the music.
Blues R & B
2519 N Halsted St.
Chicago, IL 60614
773-528-1012
chicagobluesbar.com
Green Mill is a gritty little venue in the heart of Chicago's Uptown neighborhood that has played host to names such as Von Freeman, Franz Jackson and Wilbur Campbell. There is nothing fancy about this club, but it remains popular for locals and tourists. The vibe here is reminiscent of a club that may have existed in Harlem in the 1940s. The neon sign outside proclaims that this club serves cocktails and it does indeed do just that. In addition to fine cocktails, the club also serves up blues, jazz and R & B music every day of the year. An occasional hip-hop artist or beat poet may also take the stage, but this club was built around the blues.
Green Mill
4802 N. Broadway St.
Chicago, IL 60640
773- 878-5552
greenmilljazz.com
