Koko Taylor

Not long after Koko Taylor (1928-2009) moved to Chicago in 1952, she became a regular performer at blues clubs. A record producer spotted Taylor which led to her recording of her first hit, Wang Dang Doodle. Inducted into Blues Hall of Fame and given the Blues Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award, Taylor has rightfully earned the title, “The Queen of the Blues.”

Why this stop? Koko Taylor recorded with Chess Records—a block away from the Roosevelt stop.

Watch a 1967 live performance of Koko Taylor singing Wang Dang Doodle.

Quote — It's tough being out there doing what I'm doing in what they call a man's world.”