Williamson, Sonny Boy: The Real Folk Blues (Chess 75) LP

If you think the blues is just three chords and a cloud of dust, meet the man who turned that cloud into a thunderstorm: Sonny Boy Williamson II. This 1966 Chess Records gem, The Real Folk Blues, is a masterclass in attitude, sly humor, and harmonica sorcery. From the hypnotic sway of "Checkin' Up on My Baby" to the swaggering "Bring It On Home" and the heartbreak of "Sad to Be Alone," Sonny Boy's every note feels like he's letting you in on a dangerous secret. His tone? Razor-sharp and dripping with personality. His phrasing? As unpredictable as a pool hall hustler. He didn't just play the harmonica — he gave it a soul and a swagger that inspired a generation, influencing everyone from The Yardbirds to Led Zeppelin. (Hint: That "Bring It On Home" you love? Yeah, this is the blueprint.)