“Queen of the Blues” Koko Taylor’s Prized Possessions Sold at Chicago Flea Market
A junk dealer’s chance purchase of the contents of Koko Taylor’s storage locker in Orland Park revealed a treasure trove of the legendary blues singer’s belongings, now being sold for very low prices at a flea market.
Discovery at the Flea Market
Ben Lewis was browsing through photographs, greeting cards, and business documents at a booth in the Back of the Yards flea market when he experienced a sudden realization. Every item he examined bore the name “Koko Taylor.”
“A deer in the headlights moment,” Lewis said upon recognizing he was surrounded by irreplaceable memorabilia from the Chicago icon known as the “Queen of the Blues.”
Despite their significance, these important keepsakes were displayed on small, inexpensive tables and in plastic bins, available for purchase by anyone with a few dollars.
Contents of the Collection
- Photographs of Taylor with notable figures including President Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Willie Nelson, Robert Plant, James Brown, Eric Clapton, and “Blues Brothers” actors John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd.
- Signed photos from Bonnie Raitt, Etta James, and the rock band Styx. Bonnie Raitt’s inscription read:
“So great to be on the same show finally!!”
- Awards such as the Handy Awards for Blues Entertainer of the Year and Best Blues Vocalist of the Year.
- Several dozen handwritten song lyrics, including those from Taylor’s 2013 song “Ernestine.”
- Personal items like Christmas cards.
Legacy on Display
These artifacts highlight the remarkable career and cultural impact of Koko Taylor, solidifying her status as the greatest female blues singer of her generation and a beloved figure worldwide.
Author’s Summary
Koko Taylor’s invaluable music memorabilia surfaced unexpectedly at a Chicago flea market, offering a rare glimpse into the life of the iconic “Queen of the Blues.”
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