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Howlin' Wolf

From HitStory, the pop encyclopedia of School of Rock · Artist

Howlin' Wolf, born Chester Arthur Burnett, was an American blues singer, guitarist and harmonica player. He was born in 1910 near West Point in Mississippi, grew up in poverty and in the 1930s became a pupil of the Delta blues musician Charley Patton. After a prison sentence and army service he was discovered by Ike Turner, who had him record with producer Sam Phillips in Memphis.

Music and breakthrough

His first record, Moanin' at Midnight (1951), earned him a contract with Chess Records in Chicago. There he played an important part in transforming acoustic Delta blues into electric Chicago blues. Between 1951 and 1969 six of his songs reached the Billboard R&B chart. Well-known songs are Smokestack Lightnin', Little Red Rooster, Killing Floor and Spoonful. His work can be found on albums such as Howlin' Wolf (the so-called Rocking Chair Album) and The London Howlin' Wolf Sessions (1971).

Influence

He had a gigantic voice, a raw growl, and an imposing presence. His songs became standards for blues rock and for many later bands. Smokestack Lightning was added to the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999, and in 1991 he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He performed until November 1975 and died in January 1976. He is regarded as one of the most influential blues musicians ever.

Listening

Listening tip. Listen to Smokestack Lightnin' and notice how the guitar repeats a single riff and how the voice darts between growling, moaning and a high howl. Can you hear the wolf?

Discography

Studio albums

Mentioned in other articles

See also

Categories: ArtistsChicago blues