Tom “Tomcat” Courtney died last month. He was the Godfather of the Blues in San Diego, and among the last of the OG bluesmen in the world. He was our direct link to Lightnin’ Hopkins, T-Bone Walker, Johnny Shines, Smokey Hog, and all the past greats. He meant so much to so many, and the proof is in all of the musicians in town who revered and respected him. Up until Covid, he still played at least three nights a week…at 91 years old! Tom was not only one of my dearest friends for 30-plus years, he has been one of the most important people in my life since I was 19 years old. RIP Tomcat —Scottie Blinn Obviously it was a woman that gave him the name Tomcat, and he’s got the scars to prove it. But the man who just celebrated his 87th birthday, surrounded by friends, fans, … Continue reading Tomcat Courtney: A Blues Life