Rogers recorded a string of solo hits beginning in the 1950s, including ``Walking By Myself,'' ``Chicago Bound'' and ``Sloppy Drunk.'' He played with Waters' band in Chicago clubs and in the studio for about a decade.

He was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1994, Radai said, and won the W.C. Handy award for male traditional blues artist last year.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 19, 1997

Chicago, IL- It is with great sadness that we report, internationally known Blues Legend Jimmy Rogers, passed away at 6:15 am this morning in a Chicago hospital after complications from colon cancer surgery.

Jimmy Rogers (a.k.a. James A. Lane) was 73 , and is survived by his wife, Dorothy, three (3) sons, five (5) daughters,17 grandchildren and a legion of fans in countries around the world. Funeral arrangements are pending,and an announcement is forthcoming. Tom Radai, Mr. Rogers' manager of 23 years, requests that inquiries to his office are handled via fax until more details are available. Rita McHann is assisting Tom Radai during this difficult time, and is available to take messages either by phone, fax or email.

A native of Rueville, Mississippi, Jimmy Rogers migrated to Chicago in 1947. Rogers was considered a pioneer of electric blues guitar. A gifted songwriter, with a distinctive vocal style, Jimmy Rogers was instrumental in developing the style of blues music known as the 'Chicago Sound'. Jimmy Rogers was the last surviving member of Muddy Waters' original band.

Many Blues and Rock n' Roll musicians touted Jimmy Rogers as a major musical influence. Rogers was in the process of recording for Atlantic Records just prior to his death. The new recording featured guest appearances by The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, Stephen Stills, Taj Mahal, Kim Wilson, Johnny Johnson and others. A release date for this recording has not been announced.

Funeral Information:
Sat - Dec 27
William W Jackson Funeral Home
2701 W 63rd St.
Chicago, IL
773-434-2400

wake 10-11AM
funeral 11 AM - 2 PM
Cemetary location to be announced

Fax inquiries only to:
Tom Radai
Blues Management
Milwaukee WI
(414) 321-1098

Alternate contact: Rita McHann
% The Blues Agency
(650) 879-1900 voice
(650) 879-1700 fax

E-mail Ray Stiles at: mnblues@aol.com

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