|
Maurice John Vaughn is a true blues original. A triple threat on guitar, saxophone and vocals, Vaughn writes powerful, innovative and often humorous songs that spring directly from his vast musical experience. His soulful and passionate vocals are convincing because Vaughn truly means what he sings. Coming out of the streets of Chicago, Vaughn was raised on Muddy Waters and Howling Wolf, black Top-40 and James Brown. He began his musical career playing drums, guitar and clarinet in his grade school band on Chicago’s south side. In 1968 he concentrated on the saxophone in order to join a local jazz trio. "They wanted a sax player, and I wanted to be in the band," Vaughn recalls with a smile. Later turning his attention to the guitar, he caught the ear of Phil Guy and in 1979 went on tour with Phil and then with Luther Allison, Son Seals and A.C. Reed. In 1986 he released his self produced CD "Generic Blues Album" that was later picked up by Alligator Records and declared "Blues Album of the Year!" by Guitar World magazine. Like the players who have come before him, he has incorporated his various influences into a blues and R&B style that is completely his own. According to Vaughn, it's important to mix things up musically and stylistically. "I don't want to be known as a 'heavy,'" Vaughn says, "but rather as someone who understands pain, can deal with it, and can also have a good time." His goal is to inspire his audience to do the same, which he easily does with his superior musicianship and engaging good nature.
|
