Eddie Burks (blues musician) facts for kids

Eddie Burks (1931–2005) was an American blues musician. He was a talented harmonica player and singer. Eddie Burks became well-known for playing music in the Maxwell Street Market in Chicago. This was during the 1960s and 1970s. Later in his career, he released several albums. He also toured often and performed at many music festivals.

Early Life and Music Journey

Growing Up in Mississippi

Eddie Burks was born on September 17, 1931. He grew up near Greenwood, Mississippi. He was the youngest of 14 children in his family. His family worked as sharecroppers. This meant they farmed land owned by others.

Moving to Chicago and New Beginnings

In 1946, Eddie moved to Chicago. He found a job working in a steel mill. For a while, he didn't play blues music. This was because of his religious beliefs. But he often went to blues clubs on the West Side of Chicago.

Eddie was also a minister in the Apostolic faith. He even had his own church. However, after important events in April 1968, he decided to play blues music full-time.

Becoming "Jewtown Eddie"

In the late 1960s and 1970s, Eddie played music very often. He performed a lot at the Maxwell Street Market. This area was sometimes called "Jewtown." Because of this, Eddie became known as "Jewtown Eddie."

During this time, he also played with other famous musicians. These included Eddie Shaw and Jimmy Dawkins. In 1977, he released his first song, "Lowdown Dog." He released two more songs after that.

Solo Career and Success

For many years, Eddie Burks was mostly known in Chicago. But in 1990, he released his first album. It was called Vampire Woman. He started his own music label with his wife, Maureen Walker. It was first called Rising Son Records. Later, it became Rising Son Blues.

After his album came out, his solo career really took off! He released more albums. He also toured frequently. He became a regular performer at music festivals. In 1994, he appeared in a documentary film. It was called Blues Highway. This film was even nominated for an Academy Award.

Later Years and Legacy

After his 70th birthday, Eddie's health began to decline. He had diabetes. But he kept playing music in Chicago clubs. Sadly, he passed away on January 27, 2005. He died in a car accident near Miller, Indiana. Eddie Burks is remembered as an important blues musician.