Demetria Taylor is awarded the prestigious “KoKo Taylor Queen of the Blues” award from the Jus’ Blues Foundation
KOKO TAYLOR “QUEEN OF THE BLUES” AWARDS
Preserving Traditional Blues Heritage
https://www.jusblues.org/honorees-2022.html
Demetria Taylor is ‘Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do’ on new album
‘Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do’ hits the streets on Delmark Records August 19th
Demetria Taylor was born to sing the blues as she is the daughter of the legendary Chicago blues guitarist Eddie Taylor! The songs on Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do are a balance of traditional blues and modern R&B, with some written by her family, some by fellow musicians Mike Wheeler and Larry Williams, one by the venerable Magic Sam, and two by Demetria herself.
This second Delmark record is a strong follow up to her Delmark debut, Bad Girl, which was nominated as best new artist debut in the 2012 Blues Music Awards. This much-anticipated new recording features the superior support from label mates Mike Wheeler Band and guitar star Carlos Showers, who often back her at her frequent gigs.
Very special guests include the legendary vocalist Deitra Farr on “Blues Early This Morning”, written by Demetria’s mom Vera Taylor; and guitarist Billy Flynn, who supplies his amazing guitar work on the aforementioned track, in addition to her dad, Eddie Taylor’s “83 Highway.”
Taylor is proud to be the new recipient of the KoKo Taylor “Queen of the Blues” Award in 2022 given by the Jus’ Blues Foundation.
Record Release Party at SPACE in Evanston, Illinois is on August 22nd.
As Demetria says, and we believe her: “It’s my time”.
Listen to “I’m Gonna Tell It” featuring Mike Wheeler and Carlos Showers.
MAKING A SCENE
Demetria Taylor Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do
August 20, 2022
Demetria Taylor
Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do
Delmark
Blues vocal powerhouse Demetria Taylor is back, following up her Delmark debut, Bad Girl, with Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do. Yes, it’s been a decade between albums, but the debut earned a BMA nomination for Best New Artist Debut. This release has many of the same ingredients and the usual dependable Delmark backing musicians for this set of tunes wherein Demetria penned two originals. You might call it a family affair of sorts as Demetria is the daughter of the legendary Chicago blues guitarist, Eddie Taylor, the sister of Eddie Taylor Jr. and the niece of Jimmy Burns. Her mother Vera Taylor was a singer a composer too, as well as her sisters. So, there is a tune from Eddie Taylor, Sr., one from Jr., and one from Vera. Beyond that her bandmates Mike Wheeler (guitar) and Larry Williams (bass) collaborate on five and the other is a chestnut from Magic Sam.
Taylor’s backing band is essentially the Mike Wheeler Band, aside from the leader and Williams, the unit includes keyboardist Brian James, guitarist Carlos Showers, and drummer Melvin “Pookie Styx” Carlisle. On two tracks the esteemed Billy Flynn steps in for Showers and fellow vocalist Deitra Farr sings with Taylor on “Blues Early This Morning.” The tracks run the gamut from traditional Chicago blues to more contemporary R&B. That sweet Chicago sound hits us right away with her dad’s “83 Highway” with the guitars of Wheeler and Flynn hitting deep as Taylor growls with conviction and James pounds a Pinetop-like piano. “Baby Be Good,” a Wheeler-Williams tune shuffles along riding the grooves of the B3 and funky guitar riffs. That style stays intact “Bad Girl Day,” the defiant Taylor announcing she’s putting up with no nonsense. She wants to look good and be her sassy best.
Billy Flynn returns for the rollicking “Blues Early This Morning” as Taylor and Dietra Farr toss lines back and forth. She takes on her brother’s tune, “Welfare Blues” in true Windy City style and James wails away on the B3 organ. Interestingly, given her dad’s and to a lesser extent, her brother’s association with Jimmy Reed, we’re hearing authentic Chicago but not the riffs that resemble Reed’s. Instead, we’re hearing funky, wah-wah infused guitar rhythms and heavy organ mostly, the kind that colors the Mike Wheeler band. “Done” and “Stay Gone” fall into this pattern as well but the title track and the outstanding “I’m Gonna Tell It” have even stronger declarative, fiery tones of a wronged woman who has had enough.
“Nursing My Kitty Cat” is the first of Taylor’s two originals and is a perky shuffle fueled by Wheeler’s band funky drive with James stepping on a piano solo which heights the danceable groove. “You Belong To Me,” the Magic Sam tune rolls along briskly, setting up the finale, Taylor’s “Young Gun Taylor,” where the refrain “rhythm and blues” speaks unequivocally about her music approach, imbued by fine picking from Wheeler.
It’s not clear why we’ve had a decade gap between albums, but rather instantly Demetria Taylor brings a presence, the authenticity passed down to her in her blues royalty family. We can’t help but take notice.
- Jim Hynes
BLUES ROADHOUSE
Roadhouse Album Review: Demetria Taylor does it just right on “Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do”
Demetria Taylor — “Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do” — Delmark
After a tough and slinky guitar intro from Billy Flynn, Demetria Taylor’s voice slides into the bluesy “83 Highway,” written by her father, Eddie Taylor Sr.
It’s just the right opening for this album of covers and originals from Taylor, who moves effortlessly through some blues, funk and R&B styles.
That’s followed by a pair of funkified tunes — “Baby Be Good” and “Bad Girl Day” — by the songwriting duo of guitarist Mike Wheeler and bassist Larry Williams, who created six of the crackling good tracks here.
“Blues Early This Morning” is a swinging duet with multi-talented soulstress Deitra Farr, written by Demetria’s mother, Vera Taylor, who was also a singer/songwriter. “Welfare Blues,” written by Eddie Taylor Jr., drives along in an uptempo blues, followed by the title track, a musical roadmap of her journey into blues with her family heritage. Most of the songs have a rhythmic R&B flavor, and Taylor’s vocals swing joyously along. And she gives tough credit to Magic Sam’s rocking “You Belong to Me” (with a tasty organ solo midway).
Taylor herself contributes two originals, the whimsically delicious romp of “Nursing My Kitty Cat,” and the autobiographical album closer, “Young Gun Taylor,” — “kicking out the rhythm and blues . . . the torch been passed down to me. . . .”
Indeed the musical torch has been passed. Taylor is not only keeping the family blues flame burning, she’s doing it with considerable style, lyrical and musical sensibility. You owe yourself a listen.
Taylor recently received the KoKo Taylor (no relation) “Queen of the Blues” Award in 2022 given by the Jus’ Blues Foundation.
BLUES BYTES – August 2022
http://www.bluenight.com/BluesBytes/wn0822.html
The publicity notes for the new album by Chicago blues singer Demetria Taylor proclaim that she was born to sing the blues. Listen to the dozen cuts on her latest, Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do (Delmark Records), and you’ll certainly agree. She’s got a fine voice and is backed by a killer Chicago band led by guitarist Mike Wheeler, and then throw in the bloodlines that she possesses as the daughter of the late Windy City blues legend Eddie Taylor. It’s not a voice with lots of power like one would have heard from Koko Taylor, Big Time Sarah, or others, past and present. Her vocals won’t start the paint peeling off the walls, but rather it’s more of a pleasant voice conveying the emotions coming from her heart.
Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do kicks off with one from Eddie Taylor Sr.’s discography, with “83 Highway” being a mid-tempo blues that gives Wheeler plenty of space to preview the guitar wizardry that we’ll hear throughout the album. Wheeler and bass player Larry Williams share songwriting credits on the next number, the up-tempo “Baby Be Good,” with exceptional guitar work throughout. That leads into one of the best cuts, the up-tempo Memphis funky tune “Bad Girl Day,” with Taylor proclaiming that she’s going to be a bad girl tonight. Brian James gives it that extra Memphis oomph with a very fine organ solo.
Ms. Taylor keeps it in the family with another killer cut, “Blues Early This Morning,” with songwriting credit given to Vera Taylor, Eddie’s wife. Deitra Farr shares vocals on this up-tempo blues shuffle, and Billy Flynn guests on guitar. “Welfare Blues” is a funky high-velocity number written by Eddie Taylor Jr., with James again showcasing his keyboard skills. The funky sound remains on the Wheeler original, “Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do,” as Taylor sings about all of the blues legends who would stop by the Eddie Taylor residence when she was young. Talk about an early blues education!
“Done” is a soul/blues co-written by Wheeler and Williams, with the former throwing in some blues/rock guitar parts to give this tune plenty of variety, before they slow the tempo on another Wheeler/Williams piece, “I’m Gonna Tell It.”
James stars on both organ and piano on the double-entendre number written by Ms. Demetria herself, “Nursing My Kitty Cat.” She lets us know that she found a man to treat her right when her regular lover doesn’t come home. “Stay Gone” seems like a continuation of the previous song, as Taylor tells that man that he doesn’t need him to come home. She’s doing quite fine without him. That leads into an up-tempo Magic Sam cover, You Belong To Me,” as Taylor tells one of her men how much she loves him.
Wrapping it up is a straight-ahead Chicago blues shuffle co-written by Ms. Taylor and James, “Young Gun Taylor,” with Wheeler again tearing it up on guitar.
Ms. Taylor states emphatically that “it’s her time,” and I believe she’s ready to take the next step towards blues stardom. She’s already a significant member from the very prolific Taylor family, and Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do will hopefully get her career to that next level.
— Bill Mitchell
ROOTSTIME (Belgium) by Freddy Celis
Chicago blues guitarist Eddie Taylor was an influence on his daughter Demetria, although he died when she was 12 years old. Demetria was raised in a blues family, her siblings were all involved in the music business. Father Eddie Taylor is best known for his great guitar work with Jimmy Reed in the 1950s and ’60s and was good friends with other blues artists such as Eddie Shaw, Little Wolf, Johnny LittleJohn and Sunnyland Slim with whom he collaborated regularly. Eddie Taylor Jr. is certainly no stranger, his guitar style is even modeled after his father’s.
In the liner notes of Demetria Taylor’s new album it can be read that “Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do” is a tribute to her father, as is her previous successful album “Bad Girl” (2011) that was released eleven years ago. also appeared for Delmark Records and was nominated for ‘Best New Artist Album’ at the 2012 Blues Music Awards. But there is even more, as Deitra Farr beautifully puts it: “I knew her daddy and her mama and I know they would be proud of their seventh child. The house Demetria Taylor was born into was the real House of The Blues, on Chicago’s Westside. She is intimate with the blues. And it’s her turn and her time.” The songs on this album are a balance of traditional blues and modern R’n B, with some songs written by her family, some by her bandmates Mike Wheeler and Larry Williams, one by Magic Sam, and two by Demetria herself. This time no songs by Koko Taylor, her biggest vocal influence, but luckily Demetria gives a more personal style to all these songs, and when she sometimes starts to growl she is vocally similar to an Etta James but with a much greater sense of nuance . Incidentally, Demetria Taylor was recently awarded the “KoKo Taylor Queen of the Blues” award. The ceremony took place in Tunica, MS, where the “Jus’ Blues Foundation” presented its blues awards.
Special guests include legendary singer Deitra Farr on a song written by Demetria's mother, Vera Taylor, "Blues Early This Morning", and guitarist Billy Flynn, who makes his incredible contribution on the aforementioned track, as well as the opening "83 Highway", an original by Demetria's father. Brian James on piano is another tasty ingredient that makes this opening track even more spicy. "Baby Be Good", has a very funky rhythm, flirting with pop and soul, written by Wheeler and Williams and so they can exploit their usual rhythmic formula here. "Bad Girl Day" continues with funk and soul as a base, but with the following "Blues Early This Morning", Demetria returns to the blues with Deitra Farr, as well as the fantastic guitar playing of Billy Flynn. "Welfare Blues" by Eddie Taylor Jr. confirms the compositional quality of the Taylor family. Demetria shines here vocally to pay a well-deserved tribute to her beloved brother, but also because the Hammond B3 here masterfully played by Brian James, is also a great added value. After the title track interwoven with R&B, soul and funk, reminiscent of the dance floors of the 70s, "Done" also follows in the footsteps of soul and funk interwoven by the guitars of Mike Wheeler and Carlos Showers. "I'm Gonna Tell It" is a soul song with yet another dose of funk in the rhythm section, and bluesy wailing guitars. After Demetria's highly danceable "Nursing My Kitty Cat", "Stay Gone" continues the style of the funky songs, here imparted by the magical bass of Larry Williams. Magic Sam's original "You Belong To Me" is another upbeat song to keep you dancing, and Mike Wheeler's guitar playing is without a doubt great. The closing "Young Gun Taylor" is more of a simple R 'n B song, very appropriate I would say. The songs are sometimes too funky to be real blues, although these songs are very entertaining and nostalgic, and I mainly hear the inspiration of blues & soul formed by Muscle Shoals, Fame Studios & Stax musicians.
With "Doin' What I'm Supposed to Do" we can already experience Demetria's personal approach to the blues, and this Queen of the Blues also emphasizes how many vocal possibilities she has. With "Doin' What I'm Supposed to Do", Demetria seems to have found a formula with which she returns to her blues roots. Her unique sound full of freshness, creativity and raw talent bridges genres and generations and if she can gather the right people around her, she is the only true successor to Koko Taylor. And she has these people with lead guitarists Mike Wheeler, Billy Flynn & Carlos Showers who impressively contribute to a path set by Steve Cropper. They surround Demetria with sparkling perceptive bluesy runs that are never soulless. Add to that the additional vocals of Deitra Farr, Larry Williams (bass), Brian James (keyboards) and Melvin Carlisle "Pookie Styx" (drums), and you can enjoy 52 minutes of this mix of vintage, contemporary and original blues, which was recorded at Delmark Riverside Studios, not really creating a new sound, but rather demonstrating the richness of these associations. https://www.rootstime.be/index.html?http://www.rootstime.be/cd_dvd_recensies.html
CULTURA BLUES (Mexico)
Demetria Taylor –
Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do
September 1, 2022 Jose Luis Garcia Fernandez
Chapter 28: Demetria Taylor – Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do (Delmark 875 – 2022)
Demetria Taylor was born to sing the blues. As is known, she is the daughter of the legendary Chicago blues guitarist, Eddie Taylor. The songs on this emotional new album, Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do , are a balance of traditional blues, funk and modern R&B, with some written by the blues royalty of the Taylor family, some by his bandmates: Mike Wheeler and Larry Williams, one more for the respectable Magic Sam; and two creations of the singer herself.
This second Delmark record is a strong and vibrant follow-up to her successful debut album, Bad Girl , which was nominated for Best New Artist Album at the 2012 Blues Music Awards. Demetria’s highly anticipated new recording has the invaluable support of Delmark artists Mike Wheeler Band and guitar star Carlos Showers often back her up on her frequent gigs of her.
Special guests include legendary vocalist, Deitra Farr on a track, written by Demetria’s mother, Vera Taylor, Blues Early This Morning; and guitarist, Billy Flynn, who contributes his incredible work on the aforementioned track, as well as, (Wreck On) Highway 83, an original piece by Demetria’s father, Eddie “Big Town Playboy/Bad Boy” Taylor. By the way, Demetria Taylor was recently awarded the “KoKo Taylor Queen of the Blues” award. The ceremony took place in Tunica, MS, where the “Jus’ Blues Foundation” presented the blues awards to her.
As Demetria says, and we believe her… “This is my time!”
Track listing: 01. 83 Highway (Eddie Taylor, Sr.); 02. Baby Be Good (Mike Wheeler/Larry Williams); 03. Bad Girl Day (Mike Wheeler/Larry Williams); 04. Blues Early This Morning (Vera Taylor); 05. Welfare Blues (Eddie Taylor, Jr.); 06. Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do (Mike Wheeler/Larry Williams); 07. Done (Mike Wheeler/Larry Williams); 08. I’m Gonna Tell It (Mike Wheeler/Larry Williams); 09. Nursing My Kitty Cat (Demetria Taylor); 10. Stay Gone (Mike Wheeler/Larry Williams); 11. You Belong To Me (Samuel Maghett “Magic Sam”); 12. Young Gun Taylor (Demetria Taylor/Brian James).
Musicians and production on the recording: Demetria Taylor: voice; Deitra Farr: voice (4); Mike Wheeler – guitar; Billy Flynn – guitar (1, 4); Carlos Showers: guitar (except in 1, 4); Larry Williams – bass; Brian James – keyboards; Melvin Carlisle “Pookie Styx” – drums Julia A. Miller & Elbio Barilari: production and supervision.
The album starts with a good original blues from the great Eddie Taylor, 83 Highway , Billy Flynn’s guitar sounds great on the track, the piano is another tasty ingredient that seasons the opening song. Baby Be Good , is a piece with a very funky rhythm, which flirts with pop-soul, Wheeler and Williams, are the composers who exploit their customary rhythmic formula here. Bad Girl Day continues with funk and soul as the basis of its musical structure.
Blues Early This Morning , Demetria once again returns to the blues in this pleasant piece written by her mother, and with a special guest: Deitra Farr, as well as the fabulous guitar of the good Billy Flynn. Welfare Blues by Eddie Taylor Jr. confirms the compositional quality of the Taylor family. Demetria does her thing on the microphone to pay a well-deserved tribute to her beloved brother de ella, in addition to her de ella, the Hammond B3 shines with its own light masterfully played by Brian James.
Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do , is the title track, a good R&B – soul – funk, reminiscent of dance floors, from the 70’s . Done , a song that follows in the footsteps of the work, with the soul and funk intertwined by the guitars of Mike Wheeler and Carlos Showers. I’m Gonna Tell It , a soulful, soulful, soulful song, with its dose of funky rhythm section and bluesy wail on the guitars. Nursing My Kitty Cat , is the song signed by Demetria, it turns out to be a very danceable and nice funk.
Stay Gone , the style of the songs persists with its dose of funk, conferred by the magical bass of the cheerful dancer, Larry Williams. You Belong To Me , original by Magic Sam, is another happy piece to keep dancing, undoubtedly, Mike Wheeler’s guitar is spectacular. Young Gun Taylor , for the closing of the album this original piece is very suitable. A simple rhythm & blues with enough ingredients to leave listeners with a good taste in their mouths.
SOUL AND JAZZ AND FUNK
DEMETRIA TAYLOR’S name may be familiar to blues collectors. She was recently awarded the KoKo Taylor “Queen of the Blues” Award, given by the Jus’ Blues Foundation. As important, maybe, is the fact that Demetria is the daughter of the legendary Chicago blues guitarist, Eddie Taylor! So what better title for her latest album than ‘Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do’? For sure Ms T was born to sing the blues and the proof’s here right across the concise 12 tracker.
Poignantly the album opens with a cover of one of her father’s best known tunes – ‘83 Highway’. Aggressive and biting, its sets the tone for what’s to follow- plenty more traditional electric Chicago blues like ‘Welfare Blues’, ‘I’m Gonna Tell It’, ‘Blues Early This Morning’ (which was written by Demetria’s mother, Vera), the tongue-in-cheek ‘Nursing My Kitty Cat’ (listen up to a great barrel house piano solo here from Brian James) and the cover of Magic Sam’s ‘You Belong To Me’. For variety, ‘Baby Be Good’ and the album’s title track veer towards the soulful side of the blues.
Throughout, Ms T has stellar support from the Mike Wheeler Band and guitar star Carlos Showers and you can probably guess that the album was recorded in Chicago – the music has Windy City Blues stamped on every track.
DOIN’ WHAT YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO DO….
Q&A with Chicago blues singer Demetria Taylor -the daughter of Eddie Taylor- traditional blues and modern R&B
“I miss the old legends that came before me. It’s really the reason why I chose to crossover to the sound I have on my album, because the sound is not the same. Music today is totally different from the music back then, but I love both.”
Demetria Taylor: Born To Sing The Blues
Demetria Taylor is the daughter of the late blues legend Eddie Taylor Sr. and is helping keep the legacy of her father alive. Eddie is best known as the rhythm guitarist in the band of Jimmy Reed, but he also had his own solo career and recorded some wonderful sides for the VJ label including the classic “Bad Boy”. Her mother Vera Taylor was also a blues singer. Demetria has fond memories of blues greats and friends of the family coming by the house including Floyd Jones, Carey Bell, Sunnyland Slim, Johnny Littlejohn, Sam Lay, Willie Kent, Tail Dragger, Eddie Shaw, Johnny B. Moore and Magic Slim. Born in Chicago, Demetria grew up surrounded by Blues music listening on records to her biggest influences including Etta James, Bessie Smith, Big Mama Thornton and most importantly, “The Queen of The Blues” Koko Taylor (no relation to her family).
(Demetria Taylor / Photo by David Tepper)
Demetria Taylor’s new album ‘Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do’ (2022) released on Delmark Records. The songs on Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do are a balance of traditional blues and modern R&B, with some written by her family, some by fellow musicians Mike Wheeler and Larry Williams, one by the venerable Magic Sam, and two by Demetria herself. This second Delmark record is a strong follow up to her Delmark debut, Bad Girl, which was nominated as best new artist debut in the 2012 Blues Music Awards. This much-anticipated new recording features the superior support from label mates Mike Wheeler Band and guitar star Carlos Showers, who often back her at her frequent gigs. Very special guests include the legendary vocalist Deitra Farr on “Blues Early This Morning”, written by Demetria’s mom Vera Taylor; and guitarist Billy Flynn, who supplies his amazing guitar work on the aforementioned track, in addition to her dad, Eddie Taylor’s “83 Highway.” Demetria Taylor is awarded the prestigious “KoKo Taylor Queen of the Blues” award from the Jus’ Blues Foundation. As Demetria says, and we believe her: “It’s my time”.
Interview by Michael Limnios Special Thanks: Kevin Johnson & Delmark Records
How has the Blues music influenced your views of the world and the journeys you’ve taken?
For me it’s been a wonderful experience. Being a national and international artist has been amazing. My outlook on the world is that I think that the blues really changed the world. I love being a part of the blues industry and touring around the world and seeing different places. I’m looking forward to going back out on tour soon.
Why do you think that the Delmark Records continues to generate such a devoted following?
Because Delmark believes in their artists and puts the work in for the artists and does the best that they can for every artist, whether the audience is young or old. Delmark definitely believes in their artists and I am happy to be a part of the Delmark family. Big thanks to Julia & Elbio and the whole staff for going with me to accept my Jus’ Blues Koko Taylor award, and for supporting my new album and it’s doing great.
“Hopes – for the world to accept me as an artist and my music, to receive me and be successful. I just have hopes, I don’t have any fears.” (Photo: Demetria Taylor & the late great “Queen of the Blues” Koko Taylor)
Which meetings have been the most important experiences?
Koko Taylor “You can’t be scared, you gotta open your own mouth and sing.” And that she said “I reminded myself of her when she was younger.”
Are there any memories from gigs, jams, open acts and studio sessions which you’d like to share with us?
My memories from gigs are going to see all the legends that passed away like Willie Kent, Big Time Sarah, Bonnie Lee, Jimmy Burns, Jimmy Johnson & my brother Eddie Taylor Jr. In jams, I miss Blues On Halsted – The Platinum Band, Chico Banks and Chicago’s Most Wanted (now lead by Big Ray Stewart). Opening acts, it was fun for me when I first started at Buddy Guy’s, opening for Billy Branch, Jimmy Johnson, Vino Louden. Opening acts made me what I am, and now I’m a headliner!
Studio sessions – 12 years ago the first one with the All Star Chicago Band (Big Time Sarah, EG McDaniel, Shun Kukuda, Eddie Taylor Junior, Roosevelt Purifoy, Pookie Styx, Billie Branch, Luke Pytel, working with these guys on my first album was the most memories I will forever carry with me. They were fun, patient, and showed love in the studio. From the second album — pure love with the Mike Wheeler Band, Pookie on drums, Deitra Farr, Billy Flynn.
What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
The late great Big Time Sarah: “Never give up on yourself or your dreams, and always believe in yourself.”
What do you miss most nowadays from the blues of the past?
I miss the old legends that came before me. It’s really the reason why I chose to crossover to the sound I have on my album, because the sound is not the same. Music today is totally different from the music back then, but I love both.
What are your hopes and fears for the future of blues?
Hopes – for the world to accept me as an artist and my music, to receive me and be successful. I just have hopes, I don’t have any fears.
What is the impact of Blues on the socio-cultural implications? How do you want the blues music to affect people? (Demetria Taylor / Photo by David Tepper)
I want people and other cultures to love my music. I’ve put in a lot of work over the years, and I hope to reach all cultures.
“Because Delmark believes in their artists and puts the work in for the artists and does the best that they can for every artist, whether the audience is young or old. Delmark definitely believes in their artists and I am happy to be a part of the Delmark family. Big thanks to Julia & Elbio and the whole staff for going with me to accept my Jus’ Blues Koko Taylor award, and for supporting my new album and it’s doing great.”
What would you say characterizes Chicago blues scene in comparison to other local US scenes and circuits?
I love all music scenes, but Chicago has a unique style. I can tell Chicago musicians from anywhere. When I went to Tunica for my awards ceremony, the band was great, but totally different from the Chicago sound, but still great.
What does to be a female artist in a Man’s World as James Brown says? What is the status of women in music?
For me, you have to stand up for what you believe in and be tough. Believe in yourself and stay in it to win. Because men will definitely push you around if you let them.
LES TEMPS DU BLUES
DEMETRIA TAYLOR’S NEW ALBUM, DETAILS
Posted by Daniel Leon | July 16, 2022 | Blues , Vocals , Chicago Blues | 0|
CHICAGO BLUES GUIDE – Hot Show Alert
HOT SHOW – August 22: Demetria Taylor
Demetria Taylor was born to sing the blues. She is the seventh child of eight from the family of the late blues legend Eddie Taylor, Sr. and is helping to keep the legacy of her father alive.
Eddie Taylor is best known as the rhythm guitarist in the band of blues icon Jimmy Reed, but he also had his own solo career and recorded highly regarded sides for the VJ label, including the classic “Bad Boy.” Demetria’s mother Vera Taylor was also a blues singer. Demetria has fond memories of blues greats and friends of the family coming by the house, including Floyd Jones, Carey Bell, Sunnyland Slim, Johnny Littlejohn, Sam Lay, Willie Kent, Tail Dragger, Eddie Shaw, Johnny B. Moore and Magic Slim.
Demetria has toured nationally and internationally and performs in many clubs and festivals locally, including the Chicago Blues Festival. She can be seen regularly at Blue Chicago, where she’s been featured since 2010. Demetria’s debut album, Bad Girl on Delmark records, earned the singer a Blues Music Award nomination for Best New Artist Debut in 2012. She just received the Koko Taylor “Queen of the Blues” Award 2022 by the Jus’ Blues Foundation in Mississippi in August.
Demetria’s sophomore album for Delmark Records is the aptly titled Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do, which drops on August 19, 2022. There will be a CD release party on August 22, 2022 at SPACE in Evanston with Demetria backed by the Mike Wheeler Band with special guest Carlos Showers on guitar.
Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do features her frequent collaborators the Mike Wheeler Band backing the singer, along with very special guests Billy Flynn (guitar), Carlos Showers (guitar) and Deitra Farr (vocals).
Born in Chicago, Demetria grew up surrounded by blues music; she listened avidly to records by her biggest influences: Etta James, Bessie Smith, Big Mama Thornton and most of all the Queen of the Blues Koko Taylor (no relation to the Eddie Taylor clan).
Demetria began playing drums at age 14, coached by her older brothers Tim and Larry, both professional blues drummers. She played in family shows across Chicago, which featured her late brother Eddie Taylor, Jr. on guitar. Demetria also sang in the gospel choir at Trinity All Nations Church on Chicago’s South Side.
“I feel that singing is something I was born to do. Sometimes on stage my eyes tear up as I feel the music I’m singing. I love to listen to all types of music, but the blues caught my ear. I’ll never give up my dream,” says Demetria who is proud to carry the torch in honor of her family.
For more info visit: Delmark Records
https://www.chicagobluesguide.com/post/hot-show-august-22-demetria-taylor
LIVING BLUES RADIO CHART AUGUST 2022
- Shemekia Copeland, Done Come Too Far, Alligator
- The Texas Horns, Everybody Let’s Roll, Blue Heart
- Bob Corritore & Friends, You Shocked Me, SWAMF / VizzTone
- Silent Partners, Changing Times, Little Village Foundation
- Charlie Musselwhite, Mississippi Son, Alligator
- John Németh, May Be the Last Time, Nola Blue
- Demetria Taylor, Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do, Delmark
- The Phantom Blues Band, Blues for Breakfast, Little Village Foundation
- Janiva Magness, Hard to Kill, Fathead
- Harrison Kennedy, Thanks for Tomorrow, Electro-Fi
- Eric Clapton, Nothing But the Blues, Reprise
- Dylan Triplett, Who is He?, VizzTone
- Breezy Rodio, Underground Blues, Wind Chill
- Kenny Neal, Straight from the Heart, Ruf
- Johnny Sansone, Into Your Blues, Short Stack
- Derrick Procell, Hello Mojo!, Catfood
- Delbert McClinton, Outdated Emotion, Hot Shot / Thirty Tigers
- Walter Trout, Ride, Provogue
- Anthony Geraci, Blues Called My Name, Blue Heart
- Too Slim and the Taildraggers, Brace Yourself! Live, Underworld / VizzTone
- Diunna Greenleaf, I Ain’t Playin’, Little Village Foundation
- Dave Weld & the Imperial Flames, Nightwalk, Delmark
- Mick Kolassa, I’m Just Getting Started!, Endless Blues
- Patty Tuite, Hard Case of the Blues, Thread City
- GA-20, Crackdown, Karma Chief
The Roots Music Report’s
Top 50 Blues Album Chart
for the Week of Sep 10, 2022
Archived Album Charts For
Demetria Taylor
Charting history for the Album Doin’ What I’m Supposed to Do
| Week Ending | Ranking | Chart |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 10, 2022 | 6 | Weekly Top 50 Blues Album Chart |
| Sep 3, 2022 | 10 | Weekly Top 50 Blues Album Chart |
| Aug 27, 2022 | 14 | Weekly Top 50 Blues Album Chart |
| Aug 20, 2022 | 17 | Weekly Top 50 Blues Album Chart |
| Aug 13, 2022 | 22 | Weekly Top 50 Blues Album Chart |
| Aug 6, 2022 | 32 | Weekly Top 50 Blues Album Chart |
| Sep 10, 2022 | 2 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Album Chart |
| Sep 3, 2022 | 3 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Album Chart |
| Aug 27, 2022 | 3 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Album Chart |
| Aug 20, 2022 | 4 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Album Chart |
| Aug 13, 2022 | 5 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Album Chart |
| Aug 6, 2022 | 7 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Album Chart |
| Sep 10, 2022 | 1 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Album Chart |
| Sep 3, 2022 | 2 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Album Chart |
| Aug 27, 2022 | 3 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Album Chart |
| Aug 20, 2022 | 2 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Album Chart |
| Aug 13, 2022 | 2 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Album Chart |
| Aug 6, 2022 | 3 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Album Chart |
Archived Song Charts For
Demetria Taylor
Charting history for the Song “83 Highway (feat. Billy Flynn)”
| Week Ending | Ranking | Chart |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 10, 2022 | 26 | Weekly Top 50 United States Song Chart |
| Aug 6, 2022 | 45 | Weekly Top 50 Blues Song Chart |
| Sep 10, 2022 | 25 | Weekly Top 50 Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 6, 2022 | 11 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Aug 13, 2022 | 14 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Aug 27, 2022 | 30 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Sep 10, 2022 | 3 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Aug 6, 2022 | 7 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 13, 2022 | 8 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 20, 2022 | 28 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 27, 2022 | 15 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Sep 10, 2022 | 2 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
Charting history for the Song “Bad Girl Day (feat. Mike Wheeler & Carlos Showers)”
| Week Ending | Ranking | Chart |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 3, 2022 | 32 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Sep 10, 2022 | 34 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
Charting history for the Song “Blues Early This Morning (feat. Deitra Farr & Billy Flynn)”
| Week Ending | Ranking | Chart |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 6, 2022 | 35 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Aug 13, 2022 | 37 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Aug 6, 2022 | 14 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 13, 2022 | 18 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 20, 2022 | 16 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 27, 2022 | 28 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
Charting history for the Song “Done (feat. Mike Wheeler & Carlos Showers)”
| Week Ending | Ranking | Chart |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 3, 2022 | 47 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Sep 10, 2022 | 43 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Sep 3, 2022 | 17 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Sep 10, 2022 | 14 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
Charting history for the Song “I’m Gonna Tell It (feat. Mike Wheeler & Carlos Showers)”
| Week Ending | Ranking | Chart |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 6, 2022 | 37 | Weekly Top 50 Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 13, 2022 | 49 | Weekly Top 50 Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 6, 2022 | 8 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Aug 13, 2022 | 10 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Aug 20, 2022 | 14 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Aug 27, 2022 | 17 | Weekly Top 50 Illinois Song Chart |
| Aug 6, 2022 | 4 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 13, 2022 | 6 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 20, 2022 | 9 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Aug 27, 2022 | 9 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
Charting history for the Song “Stay Gone (feat. Mike Wheeler & Carlos Showers)”
| Week Ending | Ranking | Chart |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 20, 2022 | 26 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
Charting history for the Song “Welfare Blues (feat. Mike Wheeler & Carlos Showers)”
| Week Ending | Ranking | Chart |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 3, 2022 | 28 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
Charting history for the Song “You Belong to Me (feat. Mike Wheeler & Carlos Showers)”
| Week Ending | Ranking | Chart |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 27, 2022 | 31 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Sep 3, 2022 | 33 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
| Sep 10, 2022 | 35 | Weekly Top 50 Chicago Blues Song Chart |
https://airplaydirect.com/music/DemetriaTaylorDoinWhatImSupposedtoDo/
Demetria Taylor’s album #1 on the Airplay Direct Charts!!
https://airplaydirect.com/charts
APD Global Radio Indicator Charts ™
- Top 50 APD Blues / Jazz / R&B Albums – August 2022
| Result | Image | Track Name | Downloads | Creds |
DEMETRIA TAYLOR CD LINER NOTES
I knew her Daddy and her Mama and I know they would be proud of their seventh child. The house Demetria Taylor was born into was the real house of the blues, on Chicago’s westside. Her mom Vera sang the blues and her dad Eddie Taylor was one of the architects of Chicago blues. Eddie was the man who taught Jimmy Reed how to play guitar and accompanied him on all his great recordings. Eddie also recorded his own great songs, such as his hit “ Bad Boy”. Demetria carries the blues in her DNA.
.. A lot has happened since Demetria recorded her debut cd “ Bad Girl” in 2011. I’ve watched her grow and come into her own. She has become a local Chicago favorite, working regularly at Blue Chicago, Buddy Guy’s Legends, B.L.U.E.S. On Halsted, The Kingston Mines and the Chicago Blues Festival. This year, she opened one night for Buddy Guy during his January residency at his club.
Demetria and I have shared some memorable times together. We were together for her first road trip and her first airplane ride. I put her in the window seat and I sat in the middle seat. We held hands. We flew from Chicago to a festival in Portland, Oregon. From there, we went on to perform at more festivals in California. When we flew back home from California, she sat in the window seat and I sat in the aisle seat. We did not hold hands.
The following week she flew from Chicago to Japan by herself. What a trooper!!!!
Demetria has also performed in France, Italy, Spain, Finland, Sweden, Mexico and Brazil, since that debut cd.
The last eleven years have also included some real sadness in Demetria’s life. Her beloved brother Eddie Taylor Jr. passed away in 2019. In 2021 her son Raymone Walker tragically lost his life. No mother should experience that kind of heartache. Somehow, Demetria has held on through her profound grief. She trusts God, keeps her faith, but she knows the blues.
The covid pandemic has slowed our world down, but Demetria said, “ First of all it’s been eleven years since I did an album. With this new album I’ve found my own voice. It’s the sound I’ve always wanted. I hope this album will take me to higher grounds. I want people to see I’ve grown as an artist. I’m ready to get back out there and travel the world.”
I’ve always admired Demetria’s drive and strong will. She knows what she wants. Her youngest child and last child at home is on her way to college. This mother of eight will be an empty nester and can really spread her wings now.
The late Queen of the Blues Koko Taylor was the lady who really inspired Demetria to sing. This year the Jus Blues Foundation is honoring Demetria with their 2022 Koko Taylor “ Queen of the Blues “ Lifetime Achievement Award. She deserves it and she is worthy of this honor. They know like I know, Demetria Taylor knows the blues. She is intimate with the blues. And it’s her turn and her time.
Deitra Farr
