Larry & The Hippies

Chicago-born guitar prodigy Larry Blasingaine burst onto the Windy City soul scene as a teenager. After a childhood accident led him to guitar as therapy, Larry quickly mastered blues classics from icons like Elmore James and Jimmy Reed. By age 10, he was performing with doo-wop groups, and at 11 he formed the Four Dukes—later joining forces with the Baby Miracles, a group inspired by Smokey Robinson’s Miracles.
Larry’s youthful talent soon earned him a spot at One-derful! Records, where he became a regular session musician. At just 15, he backed legends including Otis Clay and lent his skills to an early Jackson 5 session. Under the name Larry & the Hippies, his band delivered memorable tracks like “Gimme Some Of Yours (I’ll Give You Some Of Mine)” and served as the house band at iconic Chicago venues such as Guys & Gals.
Touring with soul powerhouse Jackie Wilson further solidified Larry’s reputation in the Chicago soul and R&B tradition. He eventually became known as a sought-after studio guitarist and arranger, collaborating with talents like Tom-Tom Washington and Gene Barge. Larry’s journey—from a West Side beginner to a celebrated session artist—embodies the innovative spirit and enduring legacy of Chicago soul.