Chick Willis, Lean and Lanky - 1969 - Funk / Blues

About This Footage

This rare footage of Chick Willis performing "Lean and Lanky" in 1969 is a significant addition to the archives of American blues and funk music. The clip's brevity belies its importance, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the career of an artist who has long flown under the radar.

Recorded on vinyl as part of Mark IV's 6808 release, "Lean and Lanky" showcases Willis' unique blend of Delta blues and funk. His guitar playing is characterized by a raw, unbridled energy that recalls the likes of Elmore James, with whom he worked extensively in his capacity as sideman. The track's driving rhythms and Willis' expressive vocals make it a standout example of late-1960s American music.

Willis' profile, though relatively unknown to mainstream audiences, is well-documented among blues enthusiasts. Born Robert L. Willis on September 24, 1934, in Cabiniss, Georgia, he was the cousin of Chuck Willis and worked as his chauffeur before launching a career as a musician. His recordings for various small labels have earned him a reputation as a raunchy, uncompromising artist.

The clip's rarity is underscored by its inclusion on this platform, where it joins an esteemed collection of hard-to-find footage from the 1960s and 1970s. The fact that "Lean and Lanky" has surfaced in this manner serves as a testament to the enduring power of Willis' music, which continues to captivate audiences with its unbridled intensity.

It is worth noting that Willis' most famous recording, "Stoop Down Baby," is often cited as a classic example of his unique style. However, "Lean and Lanky" offers a glimpse into an artist who was not afraid to push boundaries and experiment with different sounds. The track's fusion of blues and funk elements makes it a fascinating precursor to the genre-bending music that would come to define the 1970s.

The clip itself is brief but impactful, lasting just over forty-three seconds. This brevity only serves to heighten its significance, offering a fleeting glimpse into the world of Chick Willis at his creative peak. As such, this footage is an essential addition to any collection of rare and obscure music from the 1960s.

The context in which "Lean and Lanky" was recorded – on vinyl as part of Mark IV's 6808 release – adds another layer of interest to the clip. The fact that it was released during a time of great musical upheaval, when artists were pushing the boundaries of what was possible with their music, only serves to underscore its importance.

Ultimately, this footage is a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that underpins American music. Chick Willis' unique contribution to the blues and funk genres has been largely overlooked until now, but "Lean and Lanky" offers a compelling reason to re-examine his work and appreciate the enduring legacy of an artist who refused to compromise on his vision.

Curated from public records and music databases.

About Elmore James

Elmore James (né Brooks; January 27, 1918 – May 24, 1963) was an American blues guitarist, singer, songwriter, and bandleader. Noted for his use of loud amplification and his stirring voice, James was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.