CHICAGO (CBS) — A new mural in Aurora pays tribute to the city’s place in music history, and residents got a first look at an installation that pays tribute to a recording series dating back nearly 90 years.
In 1937 and 1938, Aurora stood for eighteen months at the crossroads where some of the country’s blues artists came to record. Now the stage is set for a new mural celebrating the city’s connection to the blues.
“Many of you may not know that some of these artists you see on the wall. Aurora was where people came to record. The blues. And over the years we have forgotten our history,” said Mayor of Aurora, Richard Irvin. .
Chicago artist Max Sansing’s work features the likenesses of Chicago Blues legends Buddy Guy, Koko Taylor, BB King, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Hudson “Tampa Red” Whittaker.
Whittaker participated in Bluebird Records’ recording sessions on the top floor of the now Leland Tower, formerly the Leland Hotel. It’s where artists have recorded over 300 songs.
“Those sessions were kind of lost in the mists of history, and they were rediscovered by Fox Valley Blues Society.”
Karen Fouts is the executive director of The Venue, a space founded by music patrons with nods to Bluebird Records along the walls.
“We can preserve that music and that legacy and share it with current music fans and future generations of music fans,” Fouts said.
With the unveiling of the new mural, artist Max Sansing left his mark on Aurora.
“I’ve painted all over the world. And I’ve traveled, but I’ve always come back,” Sansing said.
Just like the artists who came before him.
