Biography

Considered the "Young Turks" of the Chica­go blues scene, The Cash Box Kings are dedicated to carrying on the spirit of the 1940's and 50's post-war Chicago blues sound as well as the Delta blues music of the 20's and 30's. But these illustrious torchbear­ers also add a bravado, energy and freshness to the mix that results in a distinctive musical expe­rience. With a focus on the raw, stripped-down, ensemble playing that was the hallmark of the post-war sound, the band showcases the music of Chess Records and Sun Records while add­ing a healthy dose of original music that captures the essence of the Memphis and Chicago blues sounds of the 40's and 50's.

The Cash Box Kings are anchored by Joe Nosek (harmonica, vocals), Oscar Wilson (vo­cals), Kenny 'Beedy Eyes' Smith (drums), and Joel Paterson (guitar, vocals), augmented by a rotating cast of honorary Kings including Gerry Hundt (bass, rhythm guitar, vocals), Billy Flynn (guitar, mandolin, vocals, harmonica), Jimmy Sut­ton (upright bass, vocals), Beau Sample (upright bass, vocals), Chris "CB" Boeger (bass) and Mark Haines (drums). Barrelhouse Chuck (piano, vo­cals) also regularly performs with the group.