urban blues

Urban blues is a style of blues music that developed in American cities during the early-to-mid twentieth century, particularly Chicago and Detroit, as Southern musicians migrated north.

Distinguished from acoustic Delta blues by its use of electric guitars, amplification, and full bands with drums, bass, and harmonica.

The sound is grittier and louder, suited to noisy clubs rather than rural porches: Muddy Waters brought the Delta sound north and helped create the Chicago urban blues style.