SONG OF THE DAY Doctor Ross – The Sunnyland

Doctor Isaiah Ross, a.k.a “Doctor Ross the Harmonica Boss”, was a pioneering blues singer/guitarist/harmonica player and drummer.  Born Charles Isiah Ross in Tunica, Mississippi, he is one of my favourite blues artists whose style has often been compared to that of John Lee Hooker and Sonny Boy Williamson.

Music was always a big part of Ross’s life and by the age of nine he was playing both the drums and harmonica, making his first appearance in public by the age of 13!  Whilst in the army (and because of his extensive knowledge of medicine), Ross was posted to a military hospital and after the Second World War he set up his band and became known as “Doctor.”

Signed to Sun Records in the mid 1950’s, he was on of the first blues artists to record for the label but this was unfortunately short lived.  Convinced that the label were hiding royalties, Ross soon left and then subsequently fired his band because he was certain that he could play everything just as well on his own…which, indeed, he could!..however harsh that must have been for his band at the time!

In the early 60’s Ross cut a few singles on the fantastic Detroit indie Fortune label and this is where today’s song originates from! Recorded in 1961 and appearing as the b-side to the truly superb Cat Squirrel (check this out on my page here) The Sunnyland serves as the perfect contrasting counterpart.  Slow and steady with melodic howling harmonica responding to the dulcet tones of Ross’s vocals, this track is easy on the ears and soothing for the soul…..Check it out above.