It is with deep regret that the Houston Blues Society, on behalf of the wider blues community, bids farewell to Luther Rada, consummate musician, bandleader and gentle giant of the highest order.
Luther formed his band, ‘Luther and the Healers’, in 1991 after moving to Houston from Chicago, where he learned his craft, with the aim of being a professional blues musician for the rest of his life. In the ensuing years, he accomplished that dream, becoming leader of one of the most popular and hard-working groups in Greater Houston and the Texas Gulf Coast.
In December 1994, Luther took up a Thursday night residency at a newly-opened blues establishment, ‘The Big Easy Social and Pleasure Club’ (that he recently named “Best blues club in the Cosmos”), which continued until his sudden illness, with one notable exception. In early 1995, Luther generously ‘donated’ the last Thursday of each month to the HBS, so we could create a Blues Jam that has become a signature Houston blues event. It speaks volumes about the man’s generosity of spirit, that he placed the priorities of the Society and its members above his own desire to play his favorite venue.
Luther Rada entranced fans everywhere with his charismatic charm, soulful vocals and blazing blues guitar, and when Luther and the Healers were getting their groove on, the audience was mesmerized. To see a selection of photographs of Luther, please go to the following link: http://www.houstonbluessociety.org/misc-photos.html
Our sincere condolences go out to his family, bandmates and to the legions of friends he made along the way. We are fortunate to have been serenaded by this shining spirit during his time with us, and he will be sorely missed by all.
There will be a celebration of Luther’s life and times at The Big Easy on July 22, from 2-7pm.
RIP dear Luther