interview: Jim Liban
“Jim Liban is a legend among harp players around the world. His band, Short Stuff, played blues with a vengeance and undoubtedly turned on many of their Midwest fans to the music during their fifteen year run. After a stint as a Nashville songwriter didn’t pan out, Liban returned to Milwaukee where he led a band under his own name. As time went on, he grew tired of the grind that always left the brass ring just out of reach. The retreat from music continued when life hit him with several heavy blows.
“But music has always had the power to heal. In Jim’s case, the process started several years ago as he gradually started playing gigs again. Soon the confidence and fire was back. At the 2013 International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Liban was part of the Alex Wilson Band. Their rousing performances earned them a spot in the finals and Liban was the recipient of the Lee Oskar Best Harmonica Player award.”
~ Chicago Blues Guide
Tune into Sonia’s Blues Drive on WMSE to hear Liban chat about his upcoming show with Joel Paterson at WMSE’s Backyard BBQ event.