Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal, born Henry St. Clair Fredericks in 1942, is a key figure in late 20th-century blues. He revitalized traditional acoustic blues before expanding his musical horizons to include a wide range of folk and roots genres from around the world. Despite his experimental approach, Mahal always maintained a foundation in laid-back country blues. His influence was significant, inspiring a new generation of blues musicians in the '90s to explore diverse musical styles.

After moving to Los Angeles in 1964, Mahal established himself as a solo artist with a unique blend of vintage blues sounds. His early albums, including the self-titled debut and Natch'l Blues, cemented his reputation as a modern bluesman. Throughout his career, Mahal continued to push musical boundaries, incorporating Caribbean rhythms and reggae influences into his work. His later projects featured collaborations with a diverse array of artists and explored world music traditions in depth, showcasing his versatility and innovative spirit.