Fort Belvoir, Va. –
Teakilla Higginbotham is a DCAA Auditor whose family celebrates their love for music. The Higginbotham family celebrates the legacy of Teakilla’s paternal grandfather, Robert Higginbotham. Robert Higginbotham, widely known by his professional name, Tommy Tucker, was an American blues singer-songwriter and pianist who is best known of the 1964 hit song, “Hi-Heel Sneakers.” In 2017, the song was inducted into the Blues Foundation “Blues Hall of Fame.” Numerous musicians have recorded and covered “Hi-Heel Sneakers” including the Rolling Stones and Elvis Presley.
Regina Higginbotham is Teakilla’s aunt who also celebrates Robert’s life and Tommy Tucker’s music. Regina followed in Tommy Tucker’s footsteps and is professionally known as Teeny Tucker, an American electric blues and new blues singer and songwriter. Teeny Tucker and her band have been featured headline performers at some of the world’s most prestigious major music festivals in the US, Canada, and in Europe. She has received multiple nominations for the Blues Blast Female Artist of the Year award.
Teakilla is a proud granddaughter who remembers her grandfather through his legacy and his music. “My grandfather passed away in 1982 on my Aunt Teeny’s birthday. However, his music and legacy will continue to live on. His music has inspired and influenced not only my Aunt Teeny, but many other artists. Teeny Tucker enjoys performing to touch people’s lives and she continues to keep the blues alive.” Teakilla also follows in her aunt Regina’s previous federal career path. Regina used to work for the Department of Defense and is in the Defense Logistics Agency Land and Maritime Hall of Fame under her married name.
Learn more about the history and influence of African Americans and the arts by visiting your local art museum in person or online. Consider attending local events honoring Black History Month to experience the diverse and impactful contributions of Black and African American artists.