THE EARLY YEARS

1979 playing with Jody Noa's Sho Nuf Blues Band

1980 with Jody Noa

Theresa's Lounge in the late 70's; John is above Sammy Lawhorn

John with his Muddy Water's jacket on, 1981

Theresa's Lounge with Steve Ditzel on guitar, Ernest Johnson on bass and Twist Turner on drums, late 1970's

John with Steve Ditzel on guitar, Kenard Johnson on drums at Robert Show Lounge, North Side of Chicago, late 1970's.

Lyon France on tour, late 1980's.

John with Muddy Waters, Rick Kreher on guitar and Ernest Johnson on bass in Italy, 1980.

John with Muddy Water's and Mojo Buford on tour in France, 1981.

John with Muddy Water's, learning about the blues, 1981.

Starting from the top: Charles "Sweet Pee" on bass, Sammy Lawhorn on guitar, James Cotton on harmonica, Jr. Wells on harmonica and John on guitar learning from the masters at Theresa's Lounge, south side of Chicago, 1975.

Photo courtesy of Marc Pokempner

These years were the most important in John's career. They helped to develop John's style. These are his mentors, teachers and friends.

The use of these photo's is unlawful. Full written consent is needed from the artist.