The Troubles and Triumphs of Blues Legend Hubert Sumlin: A Journey Through the Shadows and the Spotlight

Early Life and Influences

Hubert Sumlin was born on November 16, 1931, in Greenwood, Mississippi. He grew up on a sharecropping farm, where he first learned to play the guitar. His early influences included Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and Robert Johnson. At the age of 17, Sumlin left Mississippi and moved to Chicago, where he began playing in local blues clubs.

Incurable Blues: The Troubles and Triumph of Blues Legend Hubert Sumlin (Book): The Trouble and Triumph of Blues Legend Hubert Sumlin

by Will Romano

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3515 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	274 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

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Meeting Howlin' Wolf

In 1954, Sumlin met Howlin' Wolf, the legendary blues singer and harmonica player. Sumlin was immediately impressed by Wolf's raw power and energy, and he quickly became a regular member of Wolf's band. For the next 10 years, Sumlin played on some of Wolf's most iconic recordings, including "Smokestack Lightning," "Spoonful," and "The Red Rooster."

Solo Career and Recognition

After Wolf's death in 1976, Sumlin embarked on a solo career. He released a number of albums, including "Hubert Sumlin's Blues Party" (1978) and "Hubert Sumlin" (1989). Sumlin also toured extensively, performing with a variety of blues artists, including Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, and Bonnie Raitt.

Grammy Award and Later Years

In 2008, Sumlin received a Grammy Award for his lifetime achievement in blues music. He continued to tour and record until his death in 2011. Sumlin's legacy as one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time is secure. His unique style and feel for the blues influenced countless musicians and helped to shape the sound of modern blues music.

Hubert Sumlin's life was a testament to the power of perseverance and the indomitable spirit of the blues. He overcame poverty, racism, and personal tragedy to achieve his dreams. His music inspired and influenced generations of musicians, and his legacy will continue to live on for years to come.