John Primer

With thirteen CDs themselves, an international career that includes 4 years along with Muddy Waters, 14 with Magic Slim, John Primer is one of the most charismatic blues guitarists in Chicago. At eight years old John lent his first guitar and started playing with the radio of his grandmother Laura Nell. With the sound of Jimmy Reed, Muddy Waters, Little Milton, Elmore James, BB and Albert King John Primer blues fell in love with instantly. His initial inspiration also came from spirituals, gospel music and family parties in his hometown of Camden, Mississippi. At 18, feeling restless and looking for a broader audience John followed the example of his mentors and moved to Chicago in the fall of 1963. He soon found work at the time where the modern electric blues and the sound of "South Side Blues" were beginning to set.


He formed his first band The Maintainers in 1964 and shook many homes the West Side of Chicago with his guitar Harmony. In 1968 he left his band to join the group of soul and R & B, The Brotherhood. Playing at night and practicing during the day John was forming his own unique style and expanding his repertoire. His success soon led him to replace John Watkins as a guitarist in the band's permanent famous nightclub Theresa's Lounge. Over the next five years John would play as great blues icons like Junior Wells, Buddy Guy, Lonnie Brooks and other innovations that were defining the sound of Chicago Blues. In 1979, Willie Dixon, one of the greatest bassists and composers of blues of all time, persuaded him to join himself to his band The Chicago All Stars. Traveling the United States, Mexico and Europe, John Primer further developed his talents as a guitarist on, as a solo singer and as a slide

Another master of the blues who believed in John Primer was Muddy Waters, who recruited him not only as a guitarist, but also to open their shows. Just as he had done with other musicians, Muddy was like a father to John telling him of a relentless passion for the Blues. Jon was faithful to Muddy until his untimely death in 1863. Following the success with the band of Muddy John was summoned to play with the legendary Magic Slim. Over the next 14 years he toured with Magic Slim and The Teardrops, infecting audiences in every corner of the planet with their energetic sound. But his days as a sideman were counted, and after that time, John began his solo career. In 1995 the veteran released his CD "The Real Deal" for a record weight. Since then John has toured making steady release of his 13 solo albums. With its traditional phrase and his sharp slide technique, John stands out in the current scenario as one of the most charismatic and heirs of the original Chicago blues.