Otis Rush, American blues singer-songwriter and guitarist

Otis Rush Jr., born on April 29, 1934, and passing away on September 29, 2018, stands as a towering figure in the pantheon of American blues. More than just a guitarist and singer-songwriter, he was a pivotal architect of a sound that would reverberate through generations: the powerful and emotionally charged West Side Chicago blues. His profound contributions helped to define a crucial era in electric blues, leaving an indelible mark and influencing countless musicians across the globe.

The Birth of a Signature Sound: West Side Chicago Blues

Rush's musical fingerprint was unmistakably his own, immediately recognizable to any discerning blues aficionado. His guitar style was characterized by a captivating, "slow-burning" intensity, often featuring extended, vibrato-laden bent notes that seemed to stretch the very fabric of sound. This distinctive approach, while sharing certain raw, expressive qualities with contemporaries like Magic Sam and Buddy Guy, coalesced into what became formally recognized as West Side Chicago blues. This particular subgenre, emerging from the vibrant clubs and burgeoning recording scene of Chicago's west side during the 1950s and 60s, was often grittier and more emotionally charged than its South Side counterparts, frequently incorporating minor keys, complex phrasing, and a more modern, amplified sound. Otis Rush's innovative playing was a foundational element of this exciting new sound, deeply embedding his legacy within the blues canon.

A Lasting Influence on Musical Giants

The profound impact of Otis Rush's artistry cannot be overstated. His singular, soulful sound resonated deeply with a new generation of musicians, particularly those who would go on to shape the burgeoning British blues-rock scene and American rock. Legendary guitarists such as Michael Bloomfield, a pioneer of American blues-rock known for his fiery improvisations; Peter Green, the co-founder of Fleetwood Mac and one of the most revered British blues guitarists; and Eric Clapton, a globally recognized rock and blues icon often hailed as "God" by his early fans, all openly acknowledged Rush as a significant influence. They meticulously studied his phrasing, his tonal qualities, and his passionate approach, integrating elements of his unique style into their own expansive musical lexicons. In doing so, they played a crucial role in introducing the raw power and sophistication of Chicago blues to a wider international audience, cementing Rush's status as a true innovator.

An Unconventional Approach to Guitar

Beyond his stylistic innovations, Rush possessed a truly unique physical approach to the guitar that undoubtedly contributed to his signature sound. As a left-handed player, he naturally played the instrument as such. However, what set him apart was his unconventional stringing: his guitars were strung "upside-down" from a typical right-handed player's setup, meaning the low E string was positioned at the bottom, closest to the floor, rather than at the top. To further compound this individuality, he often played with the little finger of his picking hand curled underneath this low E string, a distinct positioning that many believe was integral to his ability to produce those incredibly expressive bent notes, his characteristic tonal qualities, and his unique attack. This unique method of interaction with his instrument was more than just a quirk; it was an intrinsic and essential part of his musical identity, giving him a distinct voice that few could replicate.

Vocal Prowess: A Voice to Match the Guitar

Complementing his virtuosic and highly individual guitar work was Rush's commanding vocal presence. He possessed a wide-ranging, powerful tenor voice, capable of conveying deep emotion, from raw anguish and despair to poignant lament and simmering intensity. His singing was not merely accompaniment to his guitar; it was an equally potent instrument, often mirroring the intensity, phrasing, and expressiveness of his fretboard explorations. This created a holistic and captivating performance style that underscored his status as a complete blues artist, where voice and instrument intertwined to tell compelling stories of the human experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Otis Rush Jr.

Who was Otis Rush Jr.?

Otis Rush Jr. was an influential American blues guitarist, singer-songwriter, and a foundational figure of the West Side Chicago blues style, known for his distinctive playing and powerful vocals.

What was distinctive about his guitar style?

His guitar style was characterized by a "slow-burning" sound, extended bent notes, and a unique playing technique involving his left-handed setup, with the low E string at the bottom and his little finger curled underneath it.

What is West Side Chicago blues?

West Side Chicago blues is a subgenre of electric blues that emerged from Chicago's west side in the 1950s and 60s. It's often characterized by its gritty, emotionally charged sound, frequent use of minor keys, and a more modern, amplified approach compared to earlier blues styles.

Which famous musicians did Otis Rush influence?

He significantly influenced many prominent guitarists, including American blues-rock pioneer Michael Bloomfield, Fleetwood Mac co-founder Peter Green, and rock and blues icon Eric Clapton.

How did his left-handed playing differ from typical guitarists?

Although left-handed, his guitars were strung upside-down from a typical setup, meaning the low E string was at the bottom. He also famously curled the little finger of his picking hand under this low E string, a technique believed to have contributed significantly to his unique sound and expressiveness.