Handy-winner Allison facing cancer fight

" Hailed by many as the best bluesman working today, Allison's career has been hitting its highest peaks in the past four years. "

Staff Report

Luther Allison, who has swept the top W.C. Handy Awards the past two years, is undergoing treatment for lung cancer, which has spread to his brain.

Allison's management company, BlueSky Artists, announced July 15 that the bluesman was diagnosed July 10. He has canceled all tour plans as treatment begins.

Hailed by many as the best bluesman working today, Allison's career has been hitting its highest peaks in the past four years. He recently released a new record, Reckless, on the Alligator label. A lengthy tour in support of the record was planned.

The 57-year-old Allison was born in Widenor, Ark., and moved to Chicago in the early 1950s. His first recordings were made for Delmark Records in the late 1960s. In the late 1970s, he moved to France, where he has lived ever since. In an interview with BlueSpeak this spring, he talked about moving back to the South, but no plans have been made.

Several fund-raisers and events are being planned around the country. The Beale Street Blues Society is making a "best wishes" videotape at its weekly Talent Contest at Blues City Cafe on Tuesdays. Clubs from New York to the West Coast are planning benefits. The Bayfront Blues Festival, Pocono Blues Festival, and Berrian Springs "Evening With the Blues," in conjunction with Mojo Magazine, will be selling Luther's merchandise during their festivities, with 100 percent of the profits being directed to a medical fund. In addition, "Evening With the Blues" has offered to donate a percentage of their profits to assist with this effort.

As with many musicians, Allison's health insurance will not cover all his medical expenses. Private donations are being accepted. Checks or money orders made out to Allison should be sent to: Luther Allison, c/o BlueSky Artist Management, 761 Washington Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55401.

Updates on his health are available on the Internet at www.LutherAllison.com.