James Cotton

James Henry Cotton was one of the most powerful and technically accomplished harmonica players in blues history. Born in Tunica, Mississippi, he ran away from home at age nine to live with Sonny Boy Williamson II, who taught him harmonica on the King Biscuit Time radio show. He moved to Memphis and then Chicago, where he joined Muddy Waters's band in 1954 as Little Walter's replacement, a position he held for over a decade. His own recordings for Sun, Verve, Vanguard, Alligator, and other labels showcased a style that combined raw Delta power with Chicago sophistication. He won a Grammy Award in 1996 and was one of the most in-demand live blues performers in the world until throat surgery altered his vocal abilities.