Jimmy Reed

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  • Year:
    1991
  • Inducted by:
    ZZ Top
  • Category:
    Performers
Jimmy Reed

Introduction

Simple. Accessible. Jimmy Reed seemed to pull his songs of thin air.

Reed has been covered by the likes of the Rolling Stones, Van Morrison and the Grateful Dead. His easygoing style inspired superstars and amateurs alike to take up the blues.

Hall of Fame Essay

1991

Andrew Schwartz

Jimmy Reed was one of those purely American, so-called “primitive” artists who created a style so perfect in conception and execution that it could never really be improved upon.

He was also a prolific hitmaker whose music acted as a kind of down-home touchstone for his African-American audience during the years when R&B turned into soul.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Program Cover 1991
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I can’t buy a car without first playing a Jimmy Reed tape before driving it.
ZZ Top

Photography: Kevin Mazur, WireImage