A great singer, guitarist and harmonica player and close associate of Muddy Waters, Jimmy Rogers represents the epitome of classic Chicago blues. Born in Ruleville, Mississippi, Jay Arthur Lane grew up in various parts of the south - including Atlanta and Memphis, initially learning to play harmonica before taking to the guitar in his teens. Settling in Chicago in the 1940s, he adopted his stepfather's surname and started playing professionally as Jimmy Rogers, gigging with the likes of Sonny Boy Williamson and Big Brill Broonzy, both big influences on his style. He began working with guitarist Blue Smitty and they were joined by Muddy Waters; but it was when Little Walter replaced Blue Smitty that they started making a huge impact on the local music scene and developed the style that came to be recognised as the authentic sound of Chicago blues.
Known less than affectionately in some circles as the Headcutters due to their reputation for stealing gigs from rival bands, all three went on to solo glory. Rogers was signed by Chess Records, releasing his debut single 'That's All Right' in 1950, although he continued to maintain a close musical relationship with Waters until 1955 when he formed his own band. He subsequently recorded his most famous tracks 'You're the One' and 'Walking By Myself', although his popularity faded as blues fell out of favour due to the explosion of rock & roll.
After a brief spell with Howlin' Wolf's band, he effectively retired from music in the 1960s, working as a taxi driver and proprietor of a clothes shop, but made a comeback after a re-awakening of interest in blues in Europe, recording the LP 'Gold-Tailed Bird' in 1972. He played in bands with his son Jimmy D. Lane - also a guitarist - and was working on an all-star album with various contemporary rock stars at the time of his death from cancer in 1997.
