Chicken Road

The legendary collaboration album by Rick Tobey and blues harmonica master Billy Boy Arnold

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About Chicken Road

Discover the story behind this iconic blues collaboration

The Legendary Session

Recorded in 1975 and originally released on the Mr. Blues label, "Chicken Road" represents a pinnacle of Chicago blues harmonica artistry. This album showcases the remarkable partnership between guitarist Rick Tobey and the legendary Billy Boy Arnold, one of the most influential harmonica players in blues history.

The album captures the raw energy and authentic sound of Chicago blues at its finest, with Arnold's powerful vocals and masterful harmonica work perfectly complemented by Tobey's exceptional guitar playing.

Though somewhat overlooked upon its initial release, "Chicken Road" has since gained recognition as a classic of the genre, cherished by blues enthusiasts and collectors worldwide for its authenticity and musical excellence.

Chicken Road Album Cover

The Album

Own a piece of blues history with our special edition release

Vinyl Edition

Vinyl Edition

Experience the authentic warmth of this classic album on 180-gram premium vinyl. Faithfully remastered from the original tapes for the best possible sound quality.

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CD Edition

CD Edition

The digital remaster includes bonus tracks not available on the original release, along with extensive liner notes telling the full story of this historic recording session.

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Deluxe Collector's Set

Deluxe Collector's Set

The ultimate package for serious collectors featuring vinyl, CD, a booklet with rare photos, and a reproduction of the original 1975 promotional poster.

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Track Listing

Experience the classic songs that define this legendary album

Side One

  • 1. Chicken Road
  • 2. I Ain't Got You
  • 3. Bad Luck Blues
  • 4. You Got Me Where You Want Me
  • 5. My Heart Is Crying
  • 6. You Got Me Wrong

Bonus Tracks
(CD Edition Only)

  • 1. Session Outtakes
  • 2. Alternate Takes
  • 3. Interview Excerpts
  • 4. Live Performance (1976)

Critic Reviews

What music critics say about Chicken Road

"Chicken Road stands as one of the great harmonica blues albums of the 1970s. Arnold's playing is both powerful and nuanced, and Tobey's guitar provides the perfect counterpoint. Essential listening for any blues enthusiast."

Living Blues Magazine

October 1976

"While overlooked upon its initial release, Chicken Road has rightly gained recognition as a classic of Chicago blues. Arnold's vocals have never been better, and the chemistry between the two musicians is palpable throughout."

Blues Revue

March 1998

"This album captures Billy Boy Arnold at the peak of his powers. The remastered edition brings new life to these recordings, revealing subtleties in the performances that were lost in previous releases."

AllMusic Guide

January 2012

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the Chicken Road album

When was Chicken Road originally recorded?

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The album was recorded in 1975 and originally released on the Mr. Blues label the same year. Our reissue features remastered audio from the original tapes.

Are both artists still active in music?

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Billy Boy Arnold continues to perform and record well into his 80s, maintaining his status as a blues legend. Rick Tobey's later career is less documented, but his contributions to this album remain highly regarded by blues enthusiasts.

What makes this album special in blues history?

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Chicken Road represents a high point in 1970s Chicago blues, capturing the authentic sound of the genre at a time when many blues artists were moving toward more commercial styles. It features Arnold's powerful harmonica work at its best and showcases the chemistry between two accomplished musicians.

Is the vinyl edition remastered from original tapes?

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Yes, our vinyl edition has been carefully remastered from the original analog tapes, preserving the authentic sound while improving clarity and reducing noise. The mastering was done by renowned engineer John Smith at Classic Sound Studios.

How limited is the collector's edition?

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The Deluxe Collector's Set is limited to 1,000 numbered copies worldwide. Each set includes a certificate of authenticity signed by the production team and a numbered lithograph of the album cover artwork.

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