The Original Memphis Blues Brothers

The Original Memphis Blues Brothers

Step back into the raw, electrifying world of early-1950s Memphis blues and rhythm & blues with The Original Memphis Blues Brothers. This essential 26-track collection brings together an outstanding line-up of artists whose recordings helped shape the sound of post-war American blues, R&B and the music that would soon influence rock ’n’ roll.

Featuring the unmistakable voices of Bobby Bland, Little Junior Parker and Johnny Ace, alongside blues legends B.B. King and Ike Turner, the compilation captures a vibrant period in Memphis music history. Rosco Gordon contributes his distinctive rhythmic style, while Earl Forest delivers a selection of spirited performances that showcase the depth of talent emerging from the city’s thriving blues scene.

The recordings are closely connected to the work of the Bihari brothers and their Modern, RPM and Meteor labels, with several tracks associated with the Memphis Recording Service operated by Sam Phillips before it became famous as the home of Sun Records. The result is a fascinating snapshot of the independent recording culture that helped lay the foundations for the rock ’n’ roll explosion.

From Bobby Bland’s soulful delivery on “Good Lovin’” and “Crying All Night Long” to Johnny Ace’s atmospheric “Midnight Hours Journey,” the collection moves between tough, driving blues, expressive ballads and lively instrumental passages. B.B. King’s early recordings offer a particularly rewarding glimpse of a master developing his signature sound, while Ike Turner and Rosco Gordon bring plenty of grit and rhythmic energy.

Issued on Ace Records, this expanded CD edition includes material beyond the original 1989 vinyl release, making it a valuable listen for blues enthusiasts, collectors of vintage R&B and anyone interested in the roots of modern popular music. A compelling collection of foundational Memphis recordings, The Original Memphis Blues Brothers celebrates the musicians and independent labels that helped define an era.

Tracklist

1. Bobby Bland – Good Lovin'

2. Bobby Bland – Drifting From Town To Town

3. Bobby Bland – Dry Up Baby

4. Bobby Bland – Crying All Night Long

5. Bobby Bland & Little Junior Parker – Love Me Baby

6. Little Junior Parker – Bad Women, Bad Whiskey

7. Little Junior Parker – You're My Angel

8. Earl Forest – She Calls Me Daddy Aka Whole Heap Of Mama

9. Earl Forest – I Wronged A Woman

10. Earl Forest – I Can't Forgive You

11. Earl Forest – Sad And Lonely

12. Earl Forest – Rumpus Romp (Instrumental)

13. Earl Forest – Trouble And Me

14. Johnny Ace – I Cried

15. Johnny Ace – Midnight Hours Journey

16. B.B. King – B.B.'s Boogie

17. B.B. King – Mistreated Woman

18. B.B. King – The Other Night Blues

19. B.B. King – Walkin' And Cryin'

20. Ike Turner – You're Driving Me Insane

21. Ike Turner – Trouble And Heartaches

22. Rosco Gordon – That Gal Of Mine

23. Rosco Gordon – So Tired

24. Rosco Gordon – Run To Me Baby

25. Rosco Gordon – She Rocks Me

26. Rosco Gordon – Don't Have To Worry 'Bout You No More