Hour Four of this week’s Blues Before Sunrise is a powerful survey of postwar Chicago blues, bringing together many of the musicians who transformed the blues from its rural Southern roots into the electrified urban sound that would influence generations of artists. Filled with driving rhythms, expressive guitar work, and unforgettable harmonica performances, this hour captures the energy of Chicago’s thriving blues scene during its golden age.

Robert Jr. Lockwood opens the set with “Dig Myself a Hole” and “Dust My Broom,” showcasing the polished guitar style that set him apart from many of his contemporaries. Lockwood combined Delta blues traditions with a more sophisticated approach to guitar, creating performances that were both deeply rooted and forward-looking.

Sunnyland Slim follows with “Down Home Child,” bringing his trademark piano-driven blues to the program. His relaxed but commanding style reflects the sound of countless Chicago clubs where blues musicians gathered to perform and refine their craft.

Lockwood returns with “Worried Life Blues,” one of the most enduring songs in the blues tradition, before Memphis Slim steps into the spotlight with “Memphis Slim U.S.A.” His booming piano and confident vocals remind listeners why he became one of the most celebrated blues ambassadors of his generation.

Willie Longtime Smith’s “My Buddy Dr. Clayton” serves as a tribute to an earlier blues pioneer, while Big Boy Spires contributes the heartfelt “Some Day Little Darlin’.” Robert Nighthawk’s “She Knows How to Love a Man” highlights his elegant slide guitar work, blending Delta roots with Chicago sophistication.

The intensity rises with Eddie Taylor’s “Big Town Playboy” and Elmore James’ “Knocking at Your Door.” Taylor’s rhythmic guitar playing helped define the Chicago blues sound, while James’ powerful slide guitar remains one of the most recognizable sounds in blues history.

J.B. Lenoir’s “I Have Married” demonstrates his unique songwriting voice and distinctive vocal style, offering a more personal and reflective perspective. Little Walter follows with “Thunderbird,” reminding listeners why he revolutionized blues harmonica by amplifying the instrument and pushing it into the spotlight.

Willie Love’s “21 Minutes to Nine” and Smokey Smothers’ “Between Midnight and Day” continue the urban blues atmosphere before the hour concludes with three outstanding recordings by Sonny Boy Williamson I. “Early in the Morning,” “Mellow Chick Swing,” and “Wonderful Time” showcase his remarkable ability to combine storytelling, humor, and musicianship into performances that remain fresh and engaging decades later.

Taken together, these recordings form a vivid portrait of Chicago blues during one of its most creative periods. The artists featured here were not simply preserving a tradition—they were actively reshaping it, creating a sound that would leave a lasting impact on blues, rock and roll, and popular music around the world.

Playlist – Hour Four

Dig Myself a Hole – Robert Jr. Lockwood
Dust My Broom – Robert Jr. Lockwood
Down Home Child – Sunnyland Slim
Worried Life Blues – Robert Jr. Lockwood
Memphis Slim U.S.A. – Memphis Slim
My Buddy Dr. Clayton – Willie Longtime Smith
Some Day Little Darlin’ – Big Boy Spires
She Knows How to Love a Man – Robert Nighthawk
Big Town Playboy – Eddie Taylor
Knocking at Your Door – Elmore James
I Have Married – J.B. Lenoir
Thunderbird – Little Walter
21 Minutes to Nine – Willie Love
Between Midnight and Day – Smokey Smothers
Early in the Morning – Sonny Boy Williamson I
Mellow Chick Swing – Sonny Boy Williamson I
Wonderful Time – Sonny Boy Williamson I