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BORN
1921
DIED
2016
Phil Chess Obituary
The Chicago-based label recorded Chuck Berry, Muddy Waters, Etta James, Willie Dixon, Howlin Wolf, and many other famous 20th century blues, R&B, and rock artists.
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Chess, who was born Fiszel Czyz March 27, 1921, in Poland, moved to Chicago with his family, including his co-founder brother Lejzor, or Leonard. The family name was changed to Chess. In 1950, Phil Chess joined his brother in Aristocrat Records, which later changed its name to Chess Records.
Chess Records eventually was sold off, and Phil Chess retired to Arizona.
Chicago blues artist Buddy Guy, who also owns a blues club in Chicago, told the Chicago Sun-Times that the Chess brothers “were cuttin’ the type of music nobody else was paying attention to — Muddy, Howlin’ Wolf, Little Walter, Sonny Boy, Jimmy Rogers, I could go on and on — and now you can take a walk down State Street today and see a portrait of Muddy that’s 10 stories tall,” Guy said. “The Chess brothers had a lot to do with that. They started Chess Records and made Chicago what it is today — the blues capital of the world. I’ll always be grateful for that.”
In 1995, Phil and Leonard Chess were inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in their role as record label executives.
32 Entries
Harry Simpson
October 19, 2018
Rest Phil, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
JW
December 28, 2016
So sorry for the families loss. When we face the loss of our dear love one it truly becomes a trial. It's a time when our Creator steps in and assist us in the grieving process. 1 Thessalonians 3: 4
November 16, 2016
With deepest condolences to Phil and his family. As I child I remember Phil always smiling and caring about others.
Jay Samuel
Valenda Newell
November 3, 2016
IT'S HARD TO FORGET SOMEONE WHO GAVE SO MUCH TO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY (BLUES). THANKS FOR PUTTING CHICAGO ON THE MAP AND FOR HELPING OTHERS SHARE THEIR MUSIC WITH THE WORLD.......GONE NEVER FORGOTTEN....RIP
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Zaria
October 26, 2016
Its said to know that we have lost a famous musician who helped others succeed in life. But he will never be forgotten for wonderful things he had done. May you find comfort at Acts 17:31
Bev Potter
October 25, 2016
My thoughts to the family. Thank you Phil for all your wonderful contributions that enriched the lives of many.
October 25, 2016
I would like to send my condolences to the family; may you find strength through prayer.
Gab
October 22, 2016
My deepest sympathy on your loss. May the thought at Job 33:25 comfort you in knowing that Phil will return to his youthful vigor and entertain all with his humor.
October 22, 2016
Chess Family, Friends,
Sorry to hear about Mr. Chess. Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the family. PS.147:3-
He heals the brokenhearted; He binds up their wounds.
October 21, 2016
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Sisi
October 21, 2016
I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Chess will always be remembered for his work. (John 5:28,28)
October 20, 2016
Thanks for the beats that are still standing and enjoyed. RIP - My prayer is that God will comfort the family.
Harry Simpson
October 20, 2016
Godspeed, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Al James
October 20, 2016
R.I.P. Phil Chess. He was one of the pioneers of rock 'n' roll.
October 20, 2016
My sincere condolence for your loss may you have many good memories of your loved one.
R.
October 20, 2016
My condolences to the family on the loss of your dear beloved one. My hope is that you find comfort in knowing that Almighty God feels for us when we suffer.-Zechariah 2:8
Dwaine Johnson
October 20, 2016
My Sincere Condolences to Family and Friends Of Mr. Chess.
Thank you Sir for your contribution to American music. Many Great artists were given the opportunity to expose their music to the American audience. This also effected the music scene around the world. God Bless....
Yvette
October 20, 2016
My condolences to the Chess family. Losing a loved one in death, is by far the hardest thing we face in life. As you try to get through this most difficult time, may you find great comfort in the words found at John 11:11-14, and 25.
Tony Molsby
October 20, 2016
He and his brother were the right people at the right time. They captured the moment, never to be replicated, and changed the arc of popular music forever.
Scott Hooker
October 20, 2016
Thank you for having the foresight and courage to give us The Blues! You will be missed but your legacy will endure.
Verge Brinson
October 20, 2016
My sincere condolences to the Phil Chess family,and friends. May you all find comfort in the many fond memories and happy time all shared with Mr Phil Chess. Please take comfort in these words of Isaiah 18:41
October 20, 2016
R.I.P Phil
Pauline Lawhorn
October 20, 2016
RIP YOU ARE WITH THE LORD JESUS CHRIST
J
October 20, 2016
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
October 20, 2016
you've gone away, baby; but I'll see you one day, I said you gone away baby, we are not here to stay; Find rest with our God All Mighty (El todo Poderoso) are the words I pray. Thank you for sharing your talents with us.
Adrian Barnette
October 19, 2016
We'll miss you !
Patrick Foss
October 19, 2016
Rest in Peace, Phil Chess.
Thank you for bringing us such wonderful music made by great artists. Without you, we may never had heard it.
October 19, 2016
My condolences to the Chess family. May all have comfort and strength from GOD.
October 19, 2016
You will be missed.
October 19, 2016
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your love one.
October 19, 2016
My hats off to the chess bros.they brought us some of the greatest music evrr.r.i.p.phil.
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