Shula, I just wanted to narrow the focus a little and I think country blues is what Elwooddelta had in mind. If you want to include urban blues I'd suggest anything sung by Muddy Waters or written by Willie Dixon. How about "Bright Lights, Big City" by Jimmy Reed. And to bridge the gap between country blues and city blues: Memphis Minnie's "Me and My Chauffer"

BTW, while blues is usually thought of as sad music, I think it is the most joyful music you can produce without using a banjo. Anyone agree?