Super Harp

Today's video is James Cotton performing "Rocket 88". His distinct tone is one of the most recognizable honks in the history of blues harmonica. He is considered one of the great innovators of the harmonica and was an apprentice of Sonny Boy Williamson. Known for being a great showman Cotton's performances were gritty and energized. In this video, his vocals and harmonica growl and the band hits with an intense and purposeful fury.




This is one of my favorite songs of his and was ingrained into my mind after my father put it on a mix CD of blues harmonica performances. Originally written by Ike Turner, the song is considered by some (officially recognized in 1991 by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame...still debated) to be the first rock and roll song of all time. The song celebrates the joys of riding in an Oldsmobile "Rocket 88" reached #1 on the rhythm and blues charts for five weeks during the summer of 1951.