Delta Blues harmonica icon Alec Rice Miller, aka Sonny Boy Williamson 2, was born on this day in Glendora, MS, most likely in 1899. Other years from 1897 to 1907 have been given as Sonny Boy`s, birth year, but 1899 is generally accepted. Miller is a legendary Blues figure, but little is known of his early life. He was known as a moody man who often gave misleading information to interviewers. Sonny Boy was a great harmonica plaer and witty songwriter, and many of his songs are now Blues standards. Miller was typical Delta Bluesman in the 30s, traeling throughout Mississippi, Tennesee, And Arkansas playing Blues and was quite popular. It was in the 40s that he became a star when he became the host of the Helena, AR radio station KFFA`s King Biscuit Time, taking the name of nationally known Chicago harmonica star Sonny Boy Williamson. His earliest known recordings were on the Trumpet label in the early 50s. (He may or may not have avoided recording untill after the real Sonny Boy`s death, fearing legal complications.) Miller also spent time in Detroit, where he recorded with Baby Boy Warren. Trumpet eventually sold Sonny Boy`s contract, which eventually was sold to Chess Records, and Sonny Boy re-located to Chicago. In 1963, Sonny Boy went to Europe with The American Folk Blues Festival. He returned in 1964, recording with The Yardbirds and The Animals and signifigantly rejuvenating his career. He returned to his native Mississippi, reprising his role as host of King Biscuit Time, but was in poor health, and died in 1965. There are many fine recordings of Sonny Boy available. Start with King Biscuit Time on Arholie and Clownin` With The World on Trumpet, with chronicle his early, Delta style recordings for Trumpet. Also check out The Essential Sonny Boy Williamson on Chess. youtu.be/3KD6jqmKYt8
Posted on: Fri, 05 Dec 2014 13:35:52 +0000
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