Check out these new and used Lightnin’ Slim vinyl records LPs for sale. Lightnin’ Slim was born Otis Hicks in 1913 in Louisiana. He moved to Baton Rouge as a teenager, and after learning guitar from his older brother, he was playing in local bars in the late 1940s. His first professional recording was Bad Luck Blues released on Feature Records in 1954. Slim later recorded several albums for Excello Records starting in 1955. He often collaborated with Slim Harpo, who happened to be his brother-in-law. After taking a long hiatus, he started performing again in 1970 and enjoyed a resurgence in his music. Slim passed away in 1974 from complications of stomach cancer in Detroit. We recommend starting your Lightnin’ Slim vinyl collection with the signature albums Rooster Blues, London Gumbo and High & Low Down. Our LP inventory is constantly changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl from blues musicians.
The Early Years
LIGHTNIN' SLIM BED BUG BLUES / TOM CAT BLUES 45 rpm single
rooster blues
Mean Ole Lonesome Train / Have Your Way
high & low down
the strangest feelin' / you give me the blues
my starter won't work / long leanie mama
can't live this life no more / bad luck blues
baby, please come back / you move me baby
The Best Of Lightnin' Slim
Lightnin’ Slim, born Otis Hicks on March 13, 1913, in St. Louis, Missouri, was a prominent figure in the world of Louisiana blues. His distinct style and electrifying performances earned him a lasting legacy as one of the key contributors to the blues genre during the mid-20th century.
Growing up in the rural South, Slim was deeply influenced by the rich musical traditions of the region. His journey into the world of blues began at an early age, as he absorbed the sounds of Delta blues legends such as Robert Johnson and Son House. These early influences laid the foundation for Lightnin’ Slim’s own unique approach to the blues.
In the early 1950s, Slim made the move to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, a decision that would significantly shape his musical career. It was in Baton Rouge that he first encountered the vibrant blues scene and began performing in local clubs. His raw, emotionally charged performances quickly gained attention, and he soon found himself making a name for himself in the competitive world of blues music.
Lightnin’ Slim’s breakthrough came in 1954 when he signed with Excello Records, a label that would become synonymous with his name. This collaboration resulted in a string of successful and influential recordings. His gritty vocals, accompanied by his slashing slide guitar work, set him apart from other blues artists of his time.
One of his most notable tracks, “Rooster Blues,” released in 1959, became a blues standard and showcased Lightnin’ Slim’s ability to fuse traditional blues elements with a contemporary edge. The song’s infectious energy and Slim’s expressive delivery resonated with audiences, earning him widespread acclaim.
Throughout the 1960s, Lightnin’ Slim continued to solidify his status as a blues icon. His music, characterized by its unfiltered authenticity and gritty realism, struck a chord with listeners. He often drew inspiration from his own experiences, singing about the struggles and triumphs of everyday life in the Deep South.
In addition to his solo work, Lightnin’ Slim collaborated with fellow blues artists, including his association with harmonica player Slim Harpo. Their partnership resulted in several successful recordings, including the hit “I’m a King Bee.” This collaboration showcased the synergy between Slim’s vocals and Harpo’s harmonica skills, contributing to the evolution of the blues genre.
Despite his success, Lightnin’ Slim remained true to his roots and never compromised the integrity of his music. His commitment to authenticity endeared him to fans and fellow musicians alike. His influence extended beyond his recordings, as he became a respected figure within the blues community.
As the blues landscape evolved, Lightnin’ Slim’s impact endured. His work influenced subsequent generations of musicians, and his legacy lived on through the countless artists who drew inspiration from his distinctive sound. His contributions to the blues genre were celebrated not only in the United States but also around the world.
Lightnin’ Slim’s career spanned several decades, and he continued to perform and record until his passing on July 27, 1974. His music remains a testament to the enduring power of the blues, and his distinctive style continues to captivate listeners, ensuring that the legacy of Lightnin’ Slim remains etched in the annals of blues history.
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Born To Die
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