Biography
Ronnie Baker Brooks, born Rodney Dion Baker on January 23, 1967, in Chicago, Illinois, is a prominent figure in modern blues and soul blues. The eldest son of legendary bluesman Lonnie Brooks, Ronnie was immersed in the Chicago blues tradition from an early age, making his stage debut at age nine alongside his father. After graduating from Hales Franciscan High School in 1985, he joined his father's band, contributing guitar to the acclaimed live album 'Live from Chicago: Bayou Lightning Strikes' in 1988 and touring with blues icons such as Koko Taylor and Elvin Bishop.[1][4]
Brooks launched his solo career in 1998 with the album 'Golddigger,' produced by Janet Jackson, and quickly established himself as a dynamic performer and songwriter. His subsequent albums, including 'Take Me Witcha' (2001), 'The Torch' (2006), and 'Times Have Changed' (2017), showcase his fusion of Chicago blues, soul, funk, and rock influences. His 2024 release 'Blues in My DNA' marked his debut with Alligator Records and earned him three Blues Music Awards, including Song of the Year and Contemporary Blues Album of the Year.[1][3]
Renowned for his electrifying live performances and technical prowess, Brooks is celebrated as a torchbearer of Chicago blues. His style honors the genre's pioneers while incorporating modern elements, earning praise from critics and peers alike. He continues to perform internationally, inspiring new generations of blues musicians and maintaining a strong presence in the Chicago music scene.[1][5]
Fun Facts
- Ronnie Baker Brooks played his first professional gig at age nine, joining his father on stage at Pepper’s Lounge in Chicago.[4]
- His debut solo album 'Golddigger' was produced by pop superstar Janet Jackson.[1]
- Ronnie has won multiple Blues Music Awards, including three in 2025 for his album 'Blues in My DNA.'[1][3]
- He is known for blending blues with elements of funk, soul, rock, and even rap in his recordings and live shows.[5]
Associated Acts
- Legendary Rhythm & Blues Revue - guitar
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Lonnie Brooks - Father and primary mentor; taught Ronnie guitar and blues artistry from childhood. (Live from Chicago: Bayou Lightning Strikes, Satisfaction Guaranteed) [1970s–2017]
- Albert Collins - Influence and mentor; Ronnie learned directly from Collins through performances and personal interactions. (Live collaborations, Alligator Records tours) [1980s–1990s]
- Buddy Guy - Influence and collaborator; performed together and learned from Guy's approach to blues guitar. (Live performances) [1990s–present]
- Koko Taylor - Influence and collaborator; shared stages during Alligator Records tours. (Alligator Records 20th Anniversary Tour) [1988]
Key Collaborators
- Wayne Baker Brooks - Younger brother and frequent collaborator; performed together as part of the Brooks Family Band. (Brooks Family Band live shows) [2000s–present]
- Eddy Clearwater - Guest musician on 'The Torch' album. (The Torch (2006)) [2006]
- Jimmy Johnson - Guest musician on 'The Torch' album. (The Torch (2006)) [2006]
- Willie Kent - Guest musician on 'The Torch' album. (The Torch (2006)) [2006]
- Al Kapone - Guest musician on 'The Torch' album. (The Torch (2006)) [2006]
- Chris Beard - Co-writer on three tracks for Beard's album. (Who I Am and What I Do (2010)) [2010]
Artists Influenced
- Wayne Baker Brooks - Ronnie's brother, influenced by Ronnie's playing and career. (Wayne's solo albums, Brooks Family Band) [2000s–present]
- Contemporary Chicago blues musicians - Ronnie is cited as a torchbearer and inspiration for younger blues artists in Chicago. (Live performances, mentorship) [2000s–present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Times Have Changed | 2017-01-20 | Album |
| Blues In My DNA | 2024-10-11 | Album |
| Take Me Witcha | 2001 | Album |
| The Torch | 2006-08-15 | Album |
| Golddigger | 1998 | Album |
| The Blues is My Biography | 2025-11-07 | Album |
| Times Have Changed | 2017-01-20 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Times Have Changed (Times Have Changed)
- Doing Too Much (Times Have Changed)
- I'm Feeling You (Blues In My DNA)
- Wham Bam Thank You Sam (Times Have Changed)
- Twine Time (Times Have Changed)
- All True Man (All True Man)
- Show Me (Times Have Changed)
- Accept My Love (Blues In My DNA)
- Come On Up (Times Have Changed)
- Blues In My DNA (Blues In My DNA)
External Links
Tags: #blues, #chicago-blues, #electric-blues
References
Heard on WWOZ
Ronnie Baker Brooks has been played 3 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 10, 2025 | 15:55 | Accept My Lovefrom Blues In My DNA | Sittin' at the Crossroadw/ Big D | |
| Oct 29, 2025 | 15:34 | My Boofrom Blues In My DNA | Sittin' at the Crossroadw/ Big D | |
| Oct 29, 2025 | 14:35 | Blues In My DNAfrom Blues In My DNA | Sittin' at the Crossroadw/ Big D |