One At A Time is the second album from Eddie Cotton released on DeChamp Records, which is owned by Grady Champion. Cotton, who composed all 14 songs, is joined by fellow DeChamps Recording artist, JJ Thames, on background vocals, and Grady Champion on harmonica on “My Money.” Cotton’s cohorts from the 2014 release, Here I Come, return: Myron Bennett (bass), Samuel Scott, Jr. (drums), and Carlos Russell (harmonica on ‘Be Careful’). In addition, James “Hotdog” Lewis (organ/keys), Kimble Funchess (trumpet), Jessie Primer III (tenor sax) and Mike Weidick (trombone) give it their all. The album was produced by Cotton with Champion as executive producer.
An electric blues guitarist from Clinton, Mississippi, Cotton is the 2015 International Blues Challenge band winner. His previous release, Here I Come, is a 2014 Blues Blast Music Award nominee for Soul Blues Album. A minister’s son, Eddie Cotton Jr. grew up singing and playing gospel music at church and playing the music of blues legends like B.B. King at home.
Cotton studied music theory at Jackson State University in his hometown of Jackson, MS, then went on to serve as minister of music at his father’s church. This seemingly unlikely combination of musical interests is precisely what engages Cotton’s audiences, who appreciate his combination of classic electric blues with funky rhythms, soulful vocals and some downright blistering guitar playing.
Whether he’s punctuating old favorites with his own inflections or crooning a Cotton original with stunning energy, audiences are sure to take notice of this blues artist who demonstrates deep respect and appreciation for his craft..
