An absolute treat for blues fans, as well as an important historical document, Alligator Records: 50 Years of Genuine Houserockin’ Music marks the fiftieth anniversary of one the great blues and roots record labels, set to release June 18, available on 2-LP and 3-CD. It’s a half-century since Alligator Records founder, Bruce Iglauer, spent his savings on recording his favorite Chicago blues band, Hound Dog Taylor & The HouseRockers, and thereby founded what was to become one of the most celebrated labels in blues history.
Since then, Alligator Records’ artists have claimed more trophies than can be recounted here, including over 150 Blues Music Awards, 48 Grammy nominations, and three Grammy Awards. The roster of artists featured on this release is testament to Iglauer’s vision and lasting enthusiasm, from Hound Dog Taylor, Koko Taylor, Albert Collins and Johnny Winter to contemporary acts such as Shemekia Copeland, Chris Cain, Toronzo Cannon, Selwyn Birchwood and Christone “Kingfish” Ingram. All tracks have been remastered by Iglauer and Collin Jordan at The Boiler Room in Chicago and the collection is accompanied by liner notes from Bruce Iglauer, which provide a fascinating insight into his career.
