Rising Sons

Rising Sons was a short-lived but influential American blues and folk rock band formed in Los Angeles in the mid-1960s. Here are some facts about the group:

1. Formation and Members: Rising Sons was formed in 1965 by blues guitarist Ry Cooder and singer-songwriter Taj Mahal, both of whom were highly respected musicians in the Los Angeles music scene. The band also included Jesse Lee Kincaid (vocals, guitar), Gary Marker (bass), and Ed Cassidy (drums). Rising Sons' lineup represented a diverse range of musical influences, blending elements of blues, folk, rock, and traditional American music.

2. Recording Sessions: Rising Sons gained attention for their electrifying live performances and unique musical fusion, which caught the interest of record producers. The band signed with Columbia Records and began recording sessions for their debut album in 1966. However, despite recording numerous tracks, including covers of blues classics and original compositions, the album was never officially released by the record label.

3. Influence and Legacy: Despite their short-lived existence and lack of commercial success, Rising Sons left a lasting impact on the music industry and future generations of musicians. The band's pioneering blend of blues, folk, and rock laid the groundwork for the emergence of the Americana music genre, influencing artists such as The Band, Bonnie Raitt, and John Mayer. Rising Sons' recordings eventually saw the light of day in 1992 when they were released as part of a compilation album titled "The Rising Sons Featuring Taj Mahal and Ry Cooder".

4. Subsequent Careers of Members: Following the dissolution of Rising Sons, members of the band went on to have successful careers as solo artists and session musicians. Ry Cooder and Taj Mahal both enjoyed critically acclaimed solo careers, releasing numerous albums and collaborating with a wide range of artists. Jesse Lee Kincaid continued to perform and record music, while Gary Marker pursued a career as a producer and music industry executive. Ed Cassidy later gained fame as the drummer for the psychedelic rock band Spirit.

5. Cultural Impact: Rising Sons' brief but influential tenure as a band helped to bridge the gap between traditional blues music and the burgeoning folk and rock scenes of the 1960s. Their innovative approach to blending musical styles and honoring the legacy of American roots music contributed to the cultural landscape of the era and continues to resonate with audiences today. Rising Sons' legacy as a pioneering force in American music remains an important chapter in the history of blues and rock.