Otis Rush: “How I Learned to Play the Blues”

A Chicago Legend Describes His Musical Development

Otis Rush (photo courtesy Masaki Rush and House of Blues Records)

Through the decades, Otis Rush was often characterized as a brooding, intensely guarded man. He projected a tough demeanor, did not suffer fools gladly, and tended to be reticent during interviews. This was not the case, however, when we met in the lobby of his upscale North Shore high-rise on August 8, 1998, to do a cover story interview for Living Blues magazine. For two-and-a-half hours, Rush unflinchingly answered questions about his life and music. He described the harrowing youth he’d endured in Philadelphia, Mississippi; his move to Chicago; and his ups-and-downs in the recording industry. He spoke of his musical heroes and the players he’d witnessed or worked alongside during his extensive career. Near the end, he delved into his spiritual beliefs.

Our complete, unexpurgated interview will be presented in an upcoming podcast. In the meanwhile, here’s a transcription of what Rush had to say about his first encounters with the blues.

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When you were beginning to play, did you solo right away or go through learning chords first?

I learned solos right away, because I was playing more like John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters, stuff like that. I began to practice, and I learned as I go. I’m still learning.

Did you own an acoustic guitar when you were young?

Yes, I did. I didn’t own it, but my brother did. I have a brother – he can’t play, but he bought a guitar. I guess that was my big break. His name was Leroy.

Was this in Philadelphia?

Yeah. Philadelphia, Mississippi.

When you were young, did you ever see anyone playing a one-string or diddley-bow?

One-string guitar? No.

Did you know people who played blues music?

Not really. I used to listen to John Lee Hooker’s records. He was about one of the oldest guys out there. John Lee Hooker and Charles Brown. Charles Brown played piano, and he had a great sound. And today, I can hits those notes on my guitar, and you can almost swear that it’s a piano player.