John Primer

Steve Bell - Harmonica

Steve was inducted into the Chicago Blues Hall of Fame as the Master Harmonica player! John Primer has known Steve and all his brothers since they were just kids growing up on the south-side of Chicago. John would visit their Dad, Carey Bell and they were all around eager to learn about the Blues. Steve first joined the RDBB way back in 1996 and he even came to John's jam nights at Checkerboard Lounge before that. He is an Original RDBB Member.

His father, the legendary Blues Hall of Fame artist, Carey Bell taught him how to play harmonica. Not only was Carey taught how to play harmonica by the legendary Little Walter, he played in the Muddy Waters legendary band. Steve was taught how to play harmonica by his father, making him a direct link to Little Walter's style. Steve and his brothers all grew up learning how to play the blues. His big brother is also a Blues Hall of Fame Artist, Lurrie Bell and both his younger brothers, Tyson Bell, bassist and James Bell, drummer complete the Bell Family Dynasty Band. 

Steve has come a long way with his sound. He has not only taken all that his father taught him, but has established his own very unique sound of his own. He is like a blues harmonica train, so hold on tight he'll take you for a ride! 

Steve is our other headliner in the band. He brings his high energy and Bell style to John's performances. He compliments every little thing John does and knows where he needs to fill in with his harmonica to complete the song. Together, John and Steve are the BEST in the blues! No one can play together like these two. 

We love having Steve as part of our RDBB Family. We hope he stays with us for a long, long time to come. Come on out and meet Steve at one of our shows. We believe he is the BEST blues harmonica player in the world and we are so proud of him and everything he has achieved!

BLUES BLAST JANUARY 2026 FEATURED INTERVIEW
Peter Hurley's Steve Bell Interview https://www.bluesblastmagazine.com/issue-20-1-january-8-2026/