Remembering Willie Kent

The recent passing of Willie Kent has touched so many people, those who knew him personally and worked with him, and those who only knew him through his music. I've just been reading through some memorials on his official website.

I met Willie a couple of times, but did not know him personally. His band was named "The Gents" with good reason; he was a true gentleman. Whenever I had out-of-town visitors, or whenever somebody would ask me who they should see play the blues, the answer was easy: Willie Kent. More than any other band out there today, Willie Kent and the Gents embodied the true Chicago blues sound.

Last week I had to make the decision to pull Willie's bio from Today's Chicago Blues. Since I began writing the book in late 2004, we have lost Son Seals, Detroit Junior, and now Willie Kent.

I have noticed that The Gents will continue to perform, at least in April. They're scheduled to play with Patricia Scott at Blue Chicago on Thursdays and with Bonnie Lee at B.L.U.E.S. on Mondays. I haven't heard what the band's long-term plans are.

By the way, Willie's family is still needs help with expenses. You can get information about donating here.