“Chicago Blues Legends Honored in ‘Blue Haven’ at Black Ensemble Theater”

CHICAGO (WLS) — “Blue Heaven” is a rousing tribute to the music that calls Chicago home, and the legends who made it an American art form.

Lyle Miller plays Howlin’ Wolf, and Dwight Neal, Muddy Waters.

They tell all about the exhilarating celebration of the blues at the Black Ensemble Theater.

“As soon as the spotlight hits and I step onto the stage, I transform into Howlin’ Wolf. The persona of Lyle disappears, and I pull out my harmonica to perform with all my energy,” said Miller.

His voice was incredibly powerful, even if it seemed unconventional for singing. Despite that, he was such an exceptional vocalist that he used it almost like a potent tool.

“Muddy Waters is a symbol of the great migration, striving to completely reinvent himself with his stylish hair and dapper suits, claiming, ‘I shaped the Chicago Blues. This is my sound,'” Neal explained.

Miller shared stories of how these blues icons would simply grab a guitar, even if it had just a couple of strings, and start playing to express their emotions.

“It wasn’t even necessarily singing they just be preaching almost,” Miller said.

Regarding Chicago’s reputation as the blues capital, Neal was asked if this increased the pressure on him. He responded, “It marks the birth of American Music, essentially rooted in the legacy of slavery, and serves as a medium of expression stemming from gospel traditions.”

Miller said he picked up the harmonica about two months before and just started playing it , just like Howlin’ Wolf.

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