RIP Jerry McCain - June 18, 1930 to March 28, 2012

Harmonica master Jerry McCain passed away March 28, 2012, at age 81. He was born in Gadsden, Alabama which remained his home town throughout his life. He became a harmonica player at an early age and made his debut recordings for Trumpet in 1953. This would be followed by brilliant recordings for Excello, Rex, Okeh, Jewel, Romulus, GAS, Ichiban, Cedar, and Music Maker. McCain is worshiped by blues harmonica lovers for his great sense of phrasing, some wonderful trademark licks, and a beautiful full-bodied tone. He was also a great singer and a brilliant and often humourous songwriter, and some of his classic recordings are considered the bedrock of early rock & roll. He will be best remembered for his now classic double single on Rex Records of "She's Tough" with it's catchy vocal break, and the flip of the evergreen harmonica instrumental "Steady." Both of these songs are often covered bandstand favorites. The Fabulous Thunderbirds re-popularized "She's Tough" with a version on their 1979 debut record which brought wider attention to McCain's original version. We thank Jerry McCain for his many great and timeless recordings and the profound infuence he had on the blues.