Taj Mahal, Irma Thomas, Son Seals & Rev. Gary Davis to Blues Hall of Fame

The Blues Foundation has announced its 2009 inductees into the Blues Hall of Fame, and the four artists chosen to be honored represent the diversity and creative possibilities of the blues. Taj Mahal, Irma Thomas, Son Seals, and Rev. Gary Davis will officially join the greatest names in blues music with a May 6th, 2009 ceremony to be held in Memphis, the event occurring a day before The Blues Foundation’s 30th annual Blues Music Awards.

The eclectic bluesman known as Taj Mahal has, throughout the 40+ years of his career, continued to push the boundaries of blues music with his inspired incorporation of African and Island elements to his sound. New Orleans musical legend Irma Thomas is one of the most underrated talents in R&B with an incredible voice, an everlasting dignity, and undeniable charisma.

Chicago blues legend Son Seals may have begun his career as a drummer at the young age of 13, but his switch to guitar would have a profound impact on the blues. Seals’ blistering leads and ragged riffs fused blues and rock music like no other artist, opening the door for a whole generation of blues-rockers. The Rev. Gary Davis was one of the most influential of the early-era country bluesmen, his ragtime guitar style influencing artists like Bob Dylan, Ry Cooder, Jorma Kaukonen, and even Taj Mahal.

Irma Thomas is also the recipient of multiple Blues Music Award nominations this year, nominated for “Soul Blues Album of the Year” for her Rounder Records’ release, Simply Grand, as well as for “Soul Blues Female Artist of the Year.” Congratulations to both Taj Mahal and Irma Thomas, as well as to the memory of blues greats Son Seals and Rev. Gary Davis for their induction into the Blues Hall of Fame!