Loading…
Loading…
Description
Released in 1975, *I Got What It Takes* stands as the crown jewel of Koko Taylor's Alligator catalog-and perhaps her entire discography. Chicago's Queen of the Blues delivers her most energetic, party-ready performance here, a raucous celebration of electric blues that crackles with the kind of raw power that only Taylor could command. Recorded at Sound Studios in Chicago, the album features a tight ensemble including Mighty Joe Young and Sammy Lawhorn on guitars, with Abbe Locke laying down a sinuous saxophone line that cuts through the mix like a blade of smoke. Produced by Taylor herself alongside Joe Young and the legendary Bruce Iglauer, the record channels the best of the early '70s Chicago blues scene while standing apart as its own unique statement.
The twelve tracks form a cohesive, no-frills assault of soulful groove and vocal pyrotechnics. Standouts like "Voodoo Woman" and "Big Boss Man" showcase Taylor's commanding stage presence, while "Trying To Make A Living" opens with a gritty bluesy swagger that never lets up. The album was Grammy-nominated-a rare honor for blues at the time-and earned glowing reviews from the living blues press, with *Living Blues* calling it "one of the blues' best party albums."
Beyond the critical acclaim, the record benefits from Taylor's unique ability to infuse her own lived experiences with the blues tradition. She wasn't just performing old songs; she was channeling pain, joy, and everything in between with equal intensity. The cover, designed by Michael Vollan, captures her unapologetic attitude with a stark, impactful design that complements the album's raw sound. This remains an essential listen for any blues purist, a testament to Taylor's enduring legacy and her ability to transcend her era while remaining firmly grounded in tradition.
**Sources:**
- [Alligator Records - I Got What It Takes](https://www.alligator.com/albums/I-Got-What-It-Takes-vinyl-LP/)
- [Wikipedia - Koko Taylor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Koko_Taylor)
- [Discogs - Koko Taylor - I Got What It Takes](https://www.discogs.com/master/575282-Koko-Taylor-I-Got-What-It-Takes)
Please log in to edit this record.