The final hour of this week’s Blues Before Sunrise provides a fitting conclusion to an exceptional broadcast, blending smooth jazz, soulful ballads, and classic Chicago blues into one final musical journey. Following the historical themes of Harlem, the blues of 1941, and the complete recordings of L.C. McKinley, Hour Five relaxes the pace while still delivering outstanding performances from some of the finest musicians of the postwar era.
The hour begins with tenor saxophone master Gene Ammons performing the dreamy ballad “When I Dream of You.” Ammons’ warm, expressive tone made him one of the most beloved saxophonists in jazz, effortlessly combining bebop sophistication with the earthy feeling of rhythm and blues.
The Montgomery Brothers follow with the classic “Grooveyard,” showcasing the remarkable chemistry between guitarist Wes Montgomery, bassist Monk Montgomery, and pianist Buddy Montgomery. Their performance demonstrates why the family trio remains one of jazz’s most respected ensembles, blending technical brilliance with relaxed swing.
Johnny Hartman contributes the elegant “Autumn Serenade,” reminding listeners why his rich baritone voice became one of the most admired in jazz. Lurlean Hunter continues the sophisticated mood with a graceful interpretation of “But Not for Me,” while Jimmy Smith brings his unmistakable Hammond organ sound to “Blue Smith,” illustrating why he revolutionized jazz organ during the 1950s and 1960s.
The focus then shifts toward electric blues with the incomparable Earl Hooker. “Apache War Dance” displays his remarkable guitar technique and creative instrumental approach before the equally impressive “Frosty” further demonstrates why fellow musicians regarded Hooker as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation.
Lillian Offitt adds a dose of energetic rhythm and blues with “Oh Mama,” while Andre Williams injects humor and personality into the program with the unforgettable “Greasy Chicken,” one of the many novelty recordings that helped make him a unique figure in Detroit rhythm and blues.
Jimmy Reed follows with two of his trademark performances, “Aw Shucks Hush Your Mouth” and “I’ma Love You.” Reed’s relaxed vocals, simple but infectious guitar style, and steady harmonica playing influenced countless rock and blues musicians and remain instantly recognizable decades later.
Junior Parker contributes the soulful “Driving Me Mad,” showcasing the smooth vocal delivery that helped establish him as one of Memphis’ most important blues singers. Willie Mabon follows with “He Lied,” bringing his conversational vocal style and clever songwriting to another memorable Chicago blues recording.
Jimmy Anderson keeps the groove moving with “Goin’ Through the Park,” while LaVelle White closes the featured performances with the heartfelt “Tide of Love.” White’s soulful vocals provide a strong reminder that blues continued evolving through each generation while remaining firmly connected to its traditional roots.
As listeners have come to expect, Blues Before Sunrise concludes with Fleetwood Mac’s timeless instrumental “Albatross.” Its peaceful, atmospheric melody has become the program’s signature closing theme, bringing another remarkable five-hour journey through blues history to a calm and satisfying finish.
Hour Five perfectly summarizes the spirit of Blues Before Sunrise. By seamlessly blending jazz, rhythm and blues, soul, and classic electric blues, Steve Cushing demonstrates once again that great American music cannot be confined to a single genre. Instead, it is the shared heritage and enduring artistry of these performers that continues to make each week’s broadcast both educational and deeply enjoyable.
Playlist – Hour Five
When I Dream of You – Gene Ammons
Grooveyard – Montgomery Brothers
Autumn Serenade – Johnny Hartman
But Not for Me – Lurlean Hunter
Blue Smith – Jimmy Smith
Apache War Dance – Earl Hooker
Oh Mama – Lillian Offitt
Frosty – Earl Hooker
Greasy Chicken – Andre Williams
Aw Shucks Hush Your Mouth – Jimmy Reed
I’ma Love You – Jimmy Reed
Driving Me Mad – Junior Parker
He Lied – Willie Mabon
Goin’ Through the Park – Jimmy Anderson
Tide of Love – LaVelle White
Albatross – Fleetwood Mac