The young singer who recorded 'Money (That's What I Want)' went on, with Norman Whitfield, to co-write many of the most indelible songs in Motown history.
On February 4, 1967, just over six months short of his 50th birthday, John Lee's name appeared on the UK album chart for the first time, with 'House Of The Blues.'
The track had an easy swagger illustrated, as so often, by Reed’s lyrical harmonica playing,
The stirring ballad became the group's second Motown, and third overall, R&B No.1.
'I Don't Know What You've Got (But It's Got Me)' became Richard's last Top 20 R&B hit and featured a future superstar guitarist.
The Vee-Jay single entered the R&B chart on October 24, 1960 for the man Keith called a big model for the young Rolling Stones.
The artist they called the first lady of Motown scored her first R&B No.1 with a Smokey Robinson co-write and production.
In 1964, one rock'n'roll original covered another, as Richard charted with 'Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On.'
One of the cornerstones of 20th century blues, Jimmy Reed, is anthologised on Mr. Luck: The Complete Vee-Jay Singles, released 4 August 2017.
Revered jazz drummer Louis Hayes has signed with Blue Note, and will release a tribute album to Horace Silver, with whom he played in the 1950s, in May.
To kick off the centennial celebrations of a blues titan's birth, the compilation Whiskey & Wimmen: John Lee Hooker’s Finest will be released on 31 March.
The great blues pianist Henry Gray is homeless as a result of the Louisiana floods, but the good news is there's a GoFundMe campaign where you can help.
John Mayall, Elvin Bishop, the partners in Malaco Records and a Mamie Smith classic will be among the inductees into the Blues Hall of Fame for 2016.