'Queen of the Blues' Koko Taylor's Treasures Sold at Chicago Flea Market
A collection of Koko Taylor’s personal belongings appeared for sale at a Chicago flea market after a junk dealer unintentionally purchased the contents of her storage locker in Orland Park. Among the items were photographs, letters, business papers, and personal mementos that once belonged to the legendary blues singer.
Ben Lewis, browsing through one of the market stalls in Back of the Yards, recalled his surprise when he discovered that nearly every item he touched bore Taylor’s name. In that moment, he understood he was surrounded by valuable fragments of the “Queen of the Blues,” a performer celebrated as one of the finest female blues vocalists of her time.
Despite their historic and sentimental value, these artifacts were laid out on folding tables and in plastic bins, sold for only a few dollars. The assortment included notable memorabilia and awards reflecting Taylor’s enduring career and influence.
- Photographs with President Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Willie Nelson, Robert Plant, James Brown, Eric Clapton, and the “Blues Brothers” John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd
- Signed pictures and messages from Bonnie Raitt, Etta James, and the rock band Styx
- Handy Awards recognizing her as Blues Entertainer and Best Blues Vocalist of the Year
- Handwritten song lyrics, including those from her 2013 song “Ernestine”
- Personal holiday greeting cards
“So great to be on the same show finally!!” — Bonnie Raitt
About Koko Taylor
Koko Taylor, often hailed as the “Queen of the Blues,” was renowned for her powerful voice and authentic Chicago blues style. She earned a Grammy Award and numerous honors throughout her career, influencing generations of musicians worldwide.
Author’s Summary
This flea market discovery of Koko Taylor’s possessions offers a poignant glimpse into the life and legacy of one of blues music’s greatest voices, whose cherished artifacts deserve preservation, not neglect.