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In this column, we deliver hot (and cold) takes on pop culture, judging whether a subject is overrated or underrated.

Ben Coady Sports Editor November 6, 2025 — 8.36am

Ask the music cognoscenti about Chess Records and they will probably talk about how the label opened the door for black American blues, soul and rock ’n roll pioneers to be commercially successful.

In 1950, the Chess brothers, Phil and Leonard, started their label in Chicago and recorded artists such as Chuck Berry, Muddy Waters, Etta James and Howlin’ Wolf. Their recording of Rocket 88 credited to Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats (Brenston provided vocals, but it was Ike Turner who wrote the song and his band The Kings of Rhythm that played on the record) is widely regarded

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