Known the world over (well, practically) as the “Ambassador of the Blues,” Springfield is proud to claim James Armstrong as a resident. With a jazz guitarist for a father and a blues singer for a mother, James was practically born to play music and started his first band in seventh grade. He took off with a blast, playing as a full-time guitarist in his 20s, soon signing to Oakland’s famed HighTone Records. Tragedy struck when he was severely injured during a home invasion and lost the use of his left hand and arm. Through sheer determination and strong will, he worked his way back, releasing a new album within two years of the accident. Now, decades later, Mr. Ambassador tours constantly with a steady band and just released his latest recording of many, titled Blues Been Good to Me, in October. Along with his righteous sense of blues and groove, James is a brilliant and important songwriter, bringing a thoughtful, playful and integral sensitivity to the blues canon. Right on, James, write on.
James Armstrong
Tuesday, Dec. 26, 8pm
The Alamo
Illinois Central Blues Club
This article appears in Dec 21-27, 2017.
