Little Walter

Little Walter, born Marion Walter Jacobs in Louisiana, revolutionized the blues harp by pioneering the use of amplification, enhancing its power and impact. His innovative techniques, similar to how Jimi Hendrix transformed the electric guitar, influenced countless electric blues artists. Little Walter's career was marked by collaborations with blues legends like Muddy Waters and Bo Diddley, and although he never released a solo album, compilations like His Best and The Complete Chess Masters showcase his groundbreaking work.

Despite his tumultuous personal life and struggles with alcoholism, Little Walter's amplified harmonica playing made a significant impact on the blues scene in the 1950s. Hits like "Juke" propelled him to stardom, and he continued to be a sought-after sideman in the studio. Tragically, Little Walter's life was cut short at the age of 37 in 1968, but his enduring influence is evident in his numerous accolades, including inductions into the Blues Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. His legacy lives on through his daughter's creation of the Little Walter Foundation, dedicated to preserving his memory and contributions to music.