In the beginning, jazz and blues started out on the same track before diverging into two separate genres, and in the early 20th century, the two forms borrowed liberally from each other as they took their first formative steps.

My guests, GRAMMY winners Robert Cray and Keb’ Mo’, talk about what jazz has taken from the blues, and how the two uniquely American forms of music have intertwined over the years. Robert Cray and Keb’ Mo’ in their own highly distinctive styles reminded us that the blues can be entertaining as well as innovative.

Robert Cray – This GRAMMY Award winning artist has continually displayed the talent, magnetism, and vision to usher in a bold new generation of blues.  His immensely popular records jump-started and have since fed the contemporary-blues boom.  Robert has been recognized for his masterful work as a guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer; his musical resume is simply overflowing.  He has played with such artists as Chuck Berry, Keith Richards, Eric Clapton and Tina Turner, as well as with mentors like John Lee Hooker and B.B. King.  These unique collaborations cement “Young Bob’s” unique status as an innovative artist who deftly bridges the gap between R&B, blues, soul and rock.  Check out www.robertcray.com for more information.

Keb’ Mo’ – Drawing on the country-blues style of Robert Johnson, Keb’ Mo’ has made his own mark on the music landscape with a series of acclaimed albums.  Keb’ brings a contemporary feel to his original recordings while paying tribute to the past with his reworkings of blues standards.  His albums are a wonderful stew of blues, soul and gospel.  Keb’s style is often described as edgy and ambitious, and he is considered one of the finest contemporary bluesmen around.  Check out www.kebmo.com for more information.