McKinley Morganfield

Or as he is more well known, Muddy Waters. Today I pay homage to one of the blues world's masters. Muddy Waters was born in Mississippi, but his real contributions lie in the electrification of Chicago Blues. Much like Duke Ellington, his real gift was not necessarily playing the blues, but keeping his band stocked with some of the best up and coming blues artists. Musicians like Sonny Boy Williamson, Lil' Walter, Freddie Green, Otis Spann, all played for and with him at some point. He had the most impressive ear for talent this world may have ever seen.

Muddy has a number of smash hits; "I got my Mojo Workin'", "I'm your Hoocie Coochie Man"(Written by Willie Dixon), and "Baby Please Don't Go." But for today I would like to post "Long Distance Call" One of my absolute favorite Muddy tunes.





Please take your time and listen to this, it is incredible. Don't put it on and casually listen while you do something else; sit down, close your eyes, and hear what Muddy Waters can do with that guitar. If you're interested in Blues History, Muddy is a good place to start for modern blues. His impact is immeasurable, and his story is fun and unique.

Just look at that man. He oozes cool, check out some live performances by him on Youtube, he is just amazing. No recording or even live album can compare to seeing him play. Seeing the emotion and passion he puts into each song, even if he's played it 50 times.


And for those of you who'd like a little more, here you are:

The Essential Muddy Waters