Bob Stroger: I Am The Blues
Bob Stroger: I Am The Blues
Bob Stroger, at 94 years old, remains an active touring musician and a celebrated figure in the blues community. In 2025, he became the oldest performer ever inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring influence on the genre. Stroger also received the 2024 Blues Music Award for Instrumentalist – Bass, marking the fifth time he has earned this prestigious honor.
Born on December 27, 1930, near Hayti, Missouri, Stroger's journey into music began after moving to Chicago during his youth. Living near Silvio’s nightclub on the West Side, he was inspired by legends such as Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. Initially self-taught on guitar, Stroger transitioned to bass under the encouragement of peers like Calvin “Fuzz” Jones and Bob Anderson. His early bands included the Red Tops and Joe Russell and the Blues Hustlers.
Stroger’s career took off in the 1970s when he joined Otis Rush’s band, becoming a cornerstone of Rush's rhythm section and gaining international recognition through touring and studio work. He later collaborated with Sunnyland Slim, Snooky Pryor, Pinetop Perkins, Jimmy Rogers, and many other blues icons. Encouraged by Sunnyland Slim, Stroger began singing and recording as a vocalist in the 1990.
As a solo artist, Stroger has released several albums, including In the House: Live at Lucerne (2002), Bob Is Back in Town (2006), Keepin’ Together (2014), and That’s My Name (2022), recorded with Brazil’s Headcutters blues band. His music reflects decades of experience and versatility, blending traditional blues grooves with his distinctive style.
Beyond performing, Stroger is dedicated to mentoring young musicians through programs like the Pinetop Perkins Foundation workshops. Known for his immaculate stage presence and warm demeanor, he continues to embody the spirit of Chicago blues while passing its legacy to future generations
Buy Tickets 9:30 PM Show! Stay All Night!
Join us for just $20! Secure your spot in advance or grab your ticket at the door $25 (if available).
Buy Tickets 11 PM Show! Come Late, Party 'Til the End!
Join the fun for only $15! In advance or at the door (if available). Note: The general admission tickets for the 11 PM show do not ensure entry to the 9:30 PM show.
Important Details:
Doors open at 8 PM: To secure guaranteed seating, guests should arrive between 8 PM and 9 PM. Guests arriving after 9 PM will be guaranteed entry, but seating will be based on availability. Seating: Available on a first-come, first-served basis at tables and the bar. Please note that tables are shared
Group Ticket Purchases:
Rosa's Lounge ensures that you and your friends are seated together if you purchase tickets under the same name. If people of your group are purchasing tickets separately, please include the group name in the Shopping Cart / Order Summary / Customer Notes section. Late Arrivals: Please note that we cannot hold seats for late arrivals or no-shows. After 9 PM, Rosa's Lounge may seat other guests in any available seats.
We are 21 & over:
- Must be contacted by a parent for pre-authorization and other instructions before you purchase tickets. Please call 773-342-0452
- Must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to enter
All sales are final. No refunds.
Bob Stroger, at 94 years old, remains an active touring musician and a celebrated figure in the blues community. In 2025, he became the oldest performer ever inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring influence on the genre. Stroger also received the 2024 Blues Music Award for Instrumentalist – Bass, marking the fifth time he has earned this prestigious honor.
Born on December 27, 1930, near Hayti, Missouri, Stroger's journey into music began after moving to Chicago during his youth. Living near Silvio’s nightclub on the West Side, he was inspired by legends such as Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. Initially self-taught on guitar, Stroger transitioned to bass under the encouragement of peers like Calvin “Fuzz” Jones and Bob Anderson. His early bands included the Red Tops and Joe Russell and the Blues Hustlers.
Stroger’s career took off in the 1970s when he joined Otis Rush’s band, becoming a cornerstone of Rush's rhythm section and gaining international recognition through touring and studio work. He later collaborated with Sunnyland Slim, Snooky Pryor, Pinetop Perkins, Jimmy Rogers, and many other blues icons. Encouraged by Sunnyland Slim, Stroger began singing and recording as a vocalist in the 1990.
As a solo artist, Stroger has released several albums, including In the House: Live at Lucerne (2002), Bob Is Back in Town (2006), Keepin’ Together (2014), and That’s My Name (2022), recorded with Brazil’s Headcutters blues band. His music reflects decades of experience and versatility, blending traditional blues grooves with his distinctive style.
Beyond performing, Stroger is dedicated to mentoring young musicians through programs like the Pinetop Perkins Foundation workshops. Known for his immaculate stage presence and warm demeanor, he continues to embody the spirit of Chicago blues while passing its legacy to future generations