White Sugar

Back to the Roots: A Look at Joanne Shaw Taylor's Breakthrough Moment in 2009 "I have played with all sorts of blues musicians all over the world, I even made a film Deep Blues where I went to Mississippi and recorded some legendary players such as R.L Burnside and Jesse -Mae Hemphill. 

Last year I heard something I thought I would never hear....a British White Girl playing blues guitar so deep and passionately it made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end!" (Dave Stewart/Eurythmics).

When blues legend Dave Stewart (Eurythmics) spoke these words, music history was in the making - but that was more than 15 years ago. Stewart's enthusiasm was no coincidence: at just 16 years old, Joanne was already turning heads with her unique blend of technique, soul, and maturity - prompting him to invite her to join his project D.U.P.

With White Sugar, released in 2009 and recorded in Memphis under the guidance of legendary producer Jim Gaines, the young Brit laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable career. The ten tracks - full of heart, blues tradition, and her unmistakable style - were far more than a promise: they were a statement. Today - many years, albums, and international tours later - this debut milestone feels more powerful than ever.