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Toronzo Cannon
Toronzo Cannon plays guitar through legs.jpg
Photo shoot from The Chicago Way
Background information
Birth name Toronzo Cannon
Born (1968-02-14) February 14, 1968 (age 58)
Chicago, Illinois, United States
Genres Blues, R&B
Occupation(s) Guitarist, singer
Instruments Guitar, vocals
Years active 1996–present
Labels Alligator Records, Delmark Records

Toronzo Cannon, born on February 14, 1968, in Chicago, Illinois, is an American electric blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He grew up on the South Side of Chicago. There, he heard many blues artists like Buddy Guy and Junior Wells.

About Toronzo Cannon

Toronzo Cannon bought his first guitar when he was 22 years old. Before playing blues, he played reggae music. Some of the musicians who inspired him include Albert Collins, B.B. King, Freddie King, Buddy Guy, and Jimi Hendrix.

His Music Career Begins

Cannon started playing guitar with other artists in 1996. These included Tommy McCracken and Joanna Connor. In 2001, he formed his own band called The Cannonball Express.

He released his first album, My Woman, in 2007. Later, he released Leaving Mood in 2011 and John The Conquer Root in 2013. His third album was even nominated for a Blues Music Award. This award was for Rock Blues Album of the Year.

Signing with Alligator Records

In 2015, Toronzo Cannon signed with Alligator Records. This is a well-known blues record label. His first album with them was The Chicago Way, released in 2016. He helped produce this album himself.

Bus Driver by Day, Musician by Night

Toronzo Cannon has a very interesting life. During the day, he works as a bus driver for the Chicago Transit Authority. At night, on weekends, and during his vacations, he performs his music.

Performing Around the World

Cannon has played at the Chicago Blues Festival nine times. He was even the main performer there in 2015. He has also performed in many cities across the United States and Europe. His tours have taken him to Mexico, South Africa, and many European countries.

His 2016 album, The Chicago Way, was nominated for Album of the Year at the 2017 Blues Music Awards.

Toronzo Cannon's Albums

  • 2007: My Woman (Ta Music)
  • 2011: Leaving Mood (Delmark)
  • 2013: John The Conquer Root (Delmark)
  • 2016: The Chicago Way (Alligator)
  • 2024: Shut Up & Play (Alligator)

Awards and Nominations

His Band Members

  • Toronzo Cannon – sings and plays guitar
  • Brian Quinn – plays bass guitar
  • Phillip Burgess – plays drums
  • Adam Pryor - plays keyboards
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