Seeing The Aces (Fred Below, Dave & Louis Myers) and Bobby King in Chicago, September 1974

"Chicago, September 23rd, 1974, Monday. ....drove first to South Park Lounge, or Louise's - an extremely friendly black bar - waved and smiled to Left Hand Frank playing mean rhythm - pals! Met David Myers of the original Chicago Aces, still together with brother Louis & Fred Below after 23 years - we talked; he'd stopped playing & was ready to go home, but as I sat with Fred Below a little later he got his bass, announced that I'd come all the way from Scotland and deserved a round of applause - this I got, and they played a number for me! Said hi to Lucretia and spoke to Lefty Frank, and sat with Below who got me another beer - he wears his artists cap with poise, was a greatly decent fellow..! Saw Billy Boy Arnold there too, then Mike & I departed.

To famous Theresa's Lounge - Muddy Waters Jr. was singing with good 2 guitars and rhythm. Samuel Lawhorn was pointed out to me, he in all green suit, enjoying himself dancing!

Next we went to a 4 o' clock bar - the 604 Club - a lot of black men & women having a good time, really knowing how to move & dance - displaying a definite dignity and air of grace - AND honesty of feeling - straightness - down to earth and poised.

Bobby King did a hell of a set - he sang happily, played guitar in clean, fast & blue fashion - is trying, on way up (like Magic Slim). He sang good Chicago blues, incl. "Hoochie Coochie Man" - is a superb guitar player. I spoke with him between sets - so friendly and happy to talk. He gave me a large photo of himself signed "Bobby King to Laurence, a very serious person, Chicago 1974" - how nice! He had already played a number ‘dedicated to Laurence from Scotland’ He was so very decent - felt moved by him and the folk at Louise’s, Freddy Below, Lefty Frank and Dave Myers.

The last set began with a soul guy Luther Johnson who resembled Woody Woodpecker. Then Bobby King stylishly laid down terrific guitar/vocals. He ended on a clever "Hideaway/Raindrops on my Window Pane" medley - I shook his hands again, bade farewell. One marvellous evening!"

Talented Bobby King's gift