Bobby "Blue" Bland, born Robert Calvin Brooks on January 27, 1930, in Barretville, Tennessee, was a seminal American blues singer known for his unique blend of gospel, blues, and R&B. Raised in rural Tennessee, Bland moved to Memphis with his mother in 1947, where he became involved in the vibrant Beale Street music scene. He was part of the Beale Streeters, a group that included future legends like B.B. King and Johnny Ace.

Bland's early career began with recordings for Modern Records in 1951, with talent scout Ike Turner playing a pivotal role. Despite initial commercial failures, his talent caught the attention of Duke Records. After a two-year hiatus for military service, Bland returned to Memphis and began working with Duke Records, where he achieved significant success.

Bland's collaboration with producer and bandleader Joe Scott resulted in a series of hits in the late 1950s and early 1960s, including "Cry Cry Cry," "I Pity the Fool," and "Turn on Your Love Light." His style was characterized by a rich baritone voice, sophisticated delivery, and dramatic orchestrations, earning him nicknames like the "Lion of the Blues" and the "Sinatra of the Blues."

Throughout his career, Bland was recognized with numerous accolades, including induction into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1981, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992, and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame in 2012. He received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997. Bland continued to perform actively until his death on June 23, 2013, in Germantown, Tennessee, leaving behind a legacy as a pivotal figure in the evolution of modern soul and blues music.