Mathis James Reed, otherwise known by his stage name “Jimmy Reed, is arguably one of the most influential Blues performers of all time. On September 6,1925 the legend himself was born in Mississippi on a plantation. He lived on the plantation up until the age of 15. While on the plantation, Reed gained basic skills on how to play the guitar and harmonica from local player Eddie Taylor who followed and helped him when his influence grew. While in Mississippi, Reed performed in numerous clubs and even on the streets in order to have another source of income, and to spread his influence. Jimmy them moved to Chicago where he enlisted in the army.