'Queen of the Blues' Koko Taylor's Priceless Items Found at Chicago Flea Market
A collection of personal belongings of Koko Taylor, renowned as the “Queen of the Blues,” appeared for sale at a flea market in Chicago after a junk dealer bought the contents of her storage locker in Orland Park for a low price.
Unexpected Discovery
Ben Lewis, browsing a booth in the Back of the Yards flea market, came across numerous photographs, greeting cards, and business papers. His attention caught on one name—Koko Taylor—featured on almost every item. He soon realized these were unique memorabilia from Taylor, celebrated as the greatest female blues singer of her generation.
Memorabilia on Display
- Photos with prominent figures like President Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Willie Nelson, Robert Plant, James Brown, Eric Clapton, and “Blues Brothers” John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd
- Autographed pictures from Bonnie Raitt, who wrote,
“So great to be on the same show finally!!”
, Etta James, and the rock band Styx - Awards such as the Handy Awards for Blues Entertainer of the Year and Best Blues Vocalist of the Year
- Several handwritten song lyrics, including her 2013 song “Ernestine”
- Miscellaneous personal items like Christmas cards
Significance of the Find
These valuable pieces, once cherished by Koko Taylor, were unexpectedly accessible for anyone to purchase for a small amount, highlighting the fragility of preserving cultural legacies.
"Suddenly, Lewis realized he was surrounded by irreplaceable keepsakes once owned by the Chicago singer known worldwide as the ‘Queen of the Blues.’"
Author's summary: Priceless memorabilia of blues legend Koko Taylor, including awards and signed photos, were surprisingly sold cheaply at a Chicago flea market, revealing a remarkable yet fragile glimpse into her legacy.