The 5 Songs Popularized By Jimmy Reed

A Legendary Bluesman

Jimmy Reed is one of the most influential blues musicians in the 1950s and 1960s. His music is accessible and easily recognizable. But before he made it big and became a household name, he spent several years busking before moving to Chicago, Illinois.

He inspired generations of musicians like The Rolling Stones, Velvet Underground, The Yardbirds, The Steve Miller Band, and Elvis Presley. Here are five of Jimmy Reed’s most popular tunes:

5. “Sun is Shining”

One of his finest musical moments, it’s catchy and infectious. It helped catapult him to the next level of stardom.

4. “Shame, Shame, Shame”

Velvet Underground members Lou Reed and John Cale covered it for their early demo. It’s blues at its best.

3. “Bright Lights, Big City”

A little slow but still soulful, it’s addicting and enchanting. This classic blues track became “an integral part of the standard blues repertoire.” It also features his signature “steady-rolling style”.

2. “Baby, What Do You Want Me to Do”

This was a hit for Reed, it’s basic and simple but still compelling. It’s not a typical 12-bar blues. Instead, it has chord substitutions in bars nine and ten.

1. “Honest I Do”

This is what several ’60s rock acts were listening to before they themselves became legends.