Karen Carroll

Chicago Blues Vocalist and Guitarist

Karen Carroll, singer, songwriter, musician, Chicago native, started singing in church at 6. She was taught singing theory by masters Robert Allen and Uncle, Nate Griffin was her vocal coach who used Bruce Thompson's Studios to teach his students. Karen & Bruce toured opening for Lonnie Brooks. Karen's impact on gospel music in the new east(Berlin wall destruction) led to opening for Albert King and The Freeman Bros very early in her career. It goes without saying that all along her career, she has been supported by her mother Jeanne Carroll (respected, world wide Jazz artist), with whom she had her first professional gig. Since the early 80's she has appeared with Katie Webster, Albert King, Carey and Lurrie Bell, Rudy Rotta, Otis Grand, Willie Kent, Steve "Big Man" Clayton, Alvin Lee, Mongo Jerry, Mississippi Heat, Buddy Guy, Deitra Farr, Bonnie Lee, Eddie Clearwater, Sammie Fender, Eddie Shaw, Angela Brown, Billy Branch, Melvin Taylor, Lonnie Brooks, Byther Smith, Johnny B. Moore, Sugar Blue, Buddy Miles, Zora Young and many more musical wonders. Singing gospel since her childhood she is an authentic performer of The Great American Deep Blues. Appearing twice at The Chicago Blues Festival; in 2008 at the request of blues master B.B. King. Karen turned to Europe in 1998, touring with many different bands, creating and leading some. Today she works solo or with different groups, always provokeing a stormy applause from the audience.