Ronnie Baker Brooks, a prominent figure in the world of blues music, is the son of the late blues legend, Lonnie Brooks. Nevertheless, Ronnie has carved out his unique identity as a blues virtuoso. He is an electrifying guitarist, an inventive and genre-expanding songwriter, and a deeply soulful vocalist. When he takes the stage, his inexhaustible energy and captivating stage presence keep his devoted audience on their feet.
Born in 1967 in Chicago, Ronnie Baker Brooks first picked up a guitar at the tender age of nine, sharing the spotlight with his famous father on stage. After completing his high school education, he wholeheartedly joined his father’s band.
His recording debut occurred in 1988 on Lonnie Brooks’ Live From Chicago: Bayou Lightning Strikes album. In 1991, he embarked on a remarkable journey as a part of The Alligator Records 20th Anniversary Tour band, supporting not only Lonnie but also blues luminaries like Elvin Bishop and Katie Webster. Night after night, he jammed with Koko Taylor and Lil’ Ed Williams, creating unforgettable blues experiences. For 12 years, Ronnie developed his skills and graced stages alongside legends such as Eric Clapton, B.B. King, and Buddy Guy, to name just a few.
Taking charge of his own destiny, Baker Brooks established Watchdog Records in 1998, paving the way for three solo albums over the subsequent eight years: Golddigger in 1998, Take Me Witcha in 2001, and The Torch in 2006.
Times Have Changed, released in 2017, received the expert touch of drummer Steve Jordan (known for his work with the Rolling Stones and Robert Cray) and found its home on the prestigious Provogue label.
In the realm of blues music, Ronnie Baker Brooks stands as one of the most respected artists, gracing festivals and concert halls not only in the United States but also across the grand stages of Europe.
In 2023, Baker Brooks signed an agreement o record for Alligator Records. He said: “I grew up playing with my father, Lonnie Brooks — witnessing and learning from the legends of the blues. I also watched as Bruce and the team at Alligator created a platform for blues artists. It inspired me to start my own label, Watchdog Records. Now, teaming up with Alligator feels like coming home. I’m excited to continue to create Chicago blues as part of my family legacy and our shared history.”
Alligator Records president and founder Bruce Iglauer said about Brooks. “Anyone who has seen Ronnie Baker Brooks in live performance knows what a thrilling blues musician he is. He’s a fiery, world-class guitar player, a straight-from-the-shoulder singer, and he writes memorable original songs. He brings the power and presence of his mentors, Luther Allison, Albert Collins and, most of all, his father, Lonnie Brooks, to the stage.”
(headline image: Ronnie Baker Brooks (left) and Alligator Records president and founder Bruce Iglauer)
Discography:
Golddigger (Watchdog Records, 1998)
Take Me Witcha (Watchdog Records, (2001)
The Torch (Watchdog Records, 2006)
Times Have Changed (Provogue, 2017)
Author: Douglas Sanders
