“Unconcerned with latter day musical fashion” I just love an artist that chooses not to sway with art’s fashions and trends. Real strength of artistic character.

When Magic Slim thundered at the microphone — his voice rough and ragged, his guitar riffs tough and punchy — listeners heard classic Chicago blues as it was conceived in the 1950s.

Not nostalgic or dated but simply unconcerned with latter-day musical fashion or commercial considerations.

That approach, which Mr. Slim clung to throughout his career, made him a symbol of Chicago blues around the world and an upholder of its noblest traditions.

Mr. Slim — who was born Morris Holt in Torrance, Miss., on Aug. 7, 1937 — died Thursday, Feb. 21, in a hospital in Philadelphia at age 75, after undergoing surgery for a bleeding ulcer, according to his son, Shawn Holt.

More: Magic Slim, Highly Regard Chicago Blues Singer and Guitarist, Dies at Age 75