
If you are looking for an authentic musical experience full of history, you cannot miss Blues Roots. This trio invites you on a sound journey straight to the popular music of the southern United States from the early 20th century, where ragtime, blues, and gospel come to life to make us enjoy and dance. 🎶
The project was born after the pandemic, when John Wyke was looking for a partner to rescue the sounds of yesteryear. After reuniting with Ángel Parada and adding the energy of Kiki Dee, the group began to shape a repertoire that pays homage to the deepest roots of Black music.
The members
The soul of this project is made up of three musicians with fascinating backgrounds:
- John Wyke: Brings his experience with the harmonica, banjolele, and vocals, bringing with him the tradition of English ‘skiffle’ and his time with ‘Cold River Blues’.
- Ángel Parada: Guitarist and vocalist, a music history enthusiast who brings his background in genres ranging from punk to blues.
- Kiki Dee: Percussionist and drummer, in charge of providing rhythm to the ensemble, always with his heart as his main instrument.
What to expect from their music? 🎸
Inspired by ‘Jug Bands’—those bands that used homemade instruments like whiskey jugs or washboards—the group seeks to recreate the atmosphere of parties from a century ago. Their repertoire is a review of almost half a century of American Black music, performing songs ranging from classics like “KC Moan” and “Bluebird Blues” to the ragtime “Red Hot” by Robert Johnson.
Their references are legends like Blind Blake, Leadbelly, Sonny Terry, and Brownie McGhee, ensuring that each performance is a celebration designed to cheer up the audience. It is, in essence, music to share and enjoy, just as it was done in the orchestras of yesteryear. ✨