Music Maker artist Chicago Bob Nelson passed away on January 16, 2013 at the age of 69. Music Maker staff, as well as all of his fans, are very saddened by the news of the passing of such an incredible and accomplished blues musician.

Chicago Bob, born on July 4, 1944, entered a family with a musical heritage, as his father played the upright bass and harmonica. It was his father, as well as his hometown Bogalusa Louisiana, that peaked his musical interest.

He followed in his father’s footsteps and picked up the harmonica at the age of 8. He was lucky enough to have extremely talented family friends, such as Slim Harpo and Lazy Lester, who taught him how to use the instrument as a means of storytelling.

In the early 1960’s, he left Louisiana for Chicago. This was a very formative moment in his musical career, as he met and was able to perform with blues legends such as Howlin’ Wolf, Buddy Guy, and Muddy Waters (Muddy Waters was the one to officially give him the name “Chicago Bob”).

Chicago Bob’s career continued to take off, as he starting touring with musicians such as Luther “Snake Boy” John and eventually joined John Lee Hooker’s touring band.

He teamed up with Music Maker Relief Foundation in 2009 , where he recorded his album Tell Me Mama.

The funeral will be held on Saturday, January 26 at 1:00 p.m. at the Willie A Watkins Funeral Home in Atlanta, Georgia. Repass will be held shortly after the service at Blind Willies in Atlanta.