Demetria Taylor:
The "Bad Girl" of the Blues
Born into the heart of Chicago's vibrant blues scene in 1973, Demetria Taylor grew up surrounded by the soulful sounds of the genre. The daughter of the renowned blues artist Eddie Taylor Sr. and the gifted vocalist Vera Taylor, Demetria's childhood was steeped in the rich traditions of the blues. Her home was a hub for Chicago Blues legends, regularly visited by icons like Floyd Jones, Carey Bell, Sunnyland Slim, Johnny Littlejohn, Sam Lay, Willie Kent, Taildragger, Eddie Shaw, Johnny B Moore, and Magic Slim.
Demetria's passion for blues was nurtured by the soulful melodies of Etta James, Bessie Smith, Big Mama Thornton, and the inimitable Koko Taylor (no relation). Her powerful and versatile vocals could effortlessly transform any space into a realm of raw emotion, from bringing down the house to summoning celestial serenity. Demetria honors her personal heroes while adding her unique flair to classics such as “Wang Dang Doodle” and “Hoochie Coochie Woman,” along with family favorites like “Take Your Hands Down” and “Bad Girl,” a nod to her father's hit “Bad Boy.”
From a young age, Demetria was musically versatile, learning drums at 14 under the guidance of her brothers Larry and Tim. She became a staple in family shows across Chicago, performing alongside her mother Vera, and her brothers, including the talented guitarist Eddie Jr. Her gospel roots from the choir at Trinity All Nations Church further enriched her musical journey.
“I’m the new kid on the block, and I respect all the musicians and singers out there,” says Demetria, reflecting her humble approach and deep respect for the blues community. “I put God first, and everything else will work out,” she asserts. Her connection to her music is profound and personal, often moving her to tears on stage as she channels the raw energy of the blues.
Demetria's journey in music has been marked by significant achievements. She has enthralled audiences nationally and internationally, gracing many clubs and festivals, including the esteemed Chicago Blues Festival. Her debut album, “Bad Girl,” released on Delmark Records, was a heartfelt homage to her roots and showcased her formidable talent. This debut earned her a nomination for "Best New Debut Artist" at the 2012 Blues Music Awards.
In August 2022, Demetria's contributions to blues were recognized with the Jus' Blues Foundation's Koko Taylor Lifetime Achievement Award. This honor coincided with the release of her second album on Delmark Records, "Doin' What I'm Supposed to Do." The following year, she garnered three Living Blues Awards nominations for Blues Artist of the Year, Female Singer, and Best Blues Album for "Doin' What I'm Supposed To Do."
Demetria Taylor continues to be a luminous presence in the blues scene, her voice echoing the legacy of her family and the soulful history of Chicago blues. Her music not only celebrates the past but also brings a vibrant, contemporary energy to the ever-evolving story of the blues.