‘Mud’ Morganfield is the eldest son of Muddy Waters and a champion of Chicago Blues. Commenting, as many artists in the festival did, on playing in a church, he reminded us that, ‘Blues comes from the church, from people in the fields in Mississippi singing hymns.’
While clearly showing the musical influence (sometimes uncannily closely) of his famous father, he brings his own particular flavour to his songs and was backed by an impeccable band for this memorable concert. His graciousness in sharing musical honours with, for example talented guitarist Paul Garner, blistering harmonica player Steve Weston and feisty pianist Eric Ranzoni was obvious throughout and resulted in some terrific solos.
Mud explained that for him it had not always been the blues. As a youngster he was into Motown. ‘I ran from this blues for a long time and now it’s caught me – I’m choked,’ he admitted. Listening to this great exponent of the style was to be aware that some things really are in the blood. What a moving opportunity this was to be, if only briefly, in the presence of such a fine and honest singer.
Image Credits: Kt bruce .