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James Cotton

James Cotton, Giant Of The Blues Harmonica, Dies At 81

Legendary harmonica player James Cotton, who died aged 81 after a 72-year-long career. Christopher Durst/Courtesy Alligator Records hide caption

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Christopher Durst/Courtesy Alligator Records

The Record

James Cotton, Giant Of The Blues Harmonica, Dies At 81

During his 72-year career, Cotton became one of the greatest and most respected bluesmen of the latter 20th century.

James Cotton, Giant Of The Blues Harmonica, Dies At 81

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James Cotton On World Cafe

James Cotton Christopher Durst/Courtesy of the artist hide caption

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Christopher Durst/Courtesy of the artist

World Cafe

James Cotton On World Cafe

XPN

The 78-year-old harmonica master stops by to perform songs from his new album, Cotton Mouth Man.

James Cotton On World Cafe

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James Cotton: 'The Voice Is Gone, But The Wind Is Still There'

James Cotton is in his 69th year of performing. The latest album by the Mississippi-born, Chicago-based bluesman is called Cotton Mouth Man. Christopher Durst/Courtesy of the artist hide caption

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Christopher Durst/Courtesy of the artist

Music

James Cotton: 'The Voice Is Gone, But The Wind Is Still There'

The Chicago bluesman is 77 and a throat cancer survivor, but he remains a fiery harmonica player. His latest album, which features collaborations with Gregg Allman and Keb' Mo', is called Cotton Mouth Man.

James Cotton: 'The Voice Is Gone, But The Wind Is Still There'

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Review

Music Reviews

A Historic Blues Concert, Newly Released

In 1977, there was a historic meeting of two musical currents: albino guitarist Johnny Winter played with legendary bluesmen Muddy Waters and James Cotton. Their 1977 concert has been released on a new album, Breakin It Up, Breakin' It Down.

A Historic Blues Concert, Newly Released

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