Otis Rush, the Quiet Master of the Blues
Before he died on Sep. 29, guitarist Otis Rush forged a place of his own among America’s blues masters. Here’s our tribute.
Strike Up The Band: Strings in Rock
Many songs by the Beatles, Elton John, and the Moody Blues would’ve been much different without the deft hand of a skilled arranger. Even the Ramones utilized some strings. But exactly when did “strings” become a “thing” in rock?
The Rolling Stones and 7 Stellar “Assists”
Occasionally, the Stones brought in outside musicians to help. Who can forget Eric Clapton on “Little Red Rooster” or Sonny Rollins on “Waiting for a Friend”?
“The Prodigal Son”: Ry Cooder’s Latest Reinvention
The roots-rocker returns with an album that (true to form) dips into everything from church music to New Orleans horns to social justice themes – all with his trademark twist. Plus, his son Joachim is the producer.
