The best known of the Sonny Boys. Why there were two I have no idea. This one was actually born as Aleck "Rice" Miller and his birthdate is a matter of dispute. I've read anywhere from 1899 to 1912. What's not in dispute is that he could play the harmonica. Absolute genius is heard when he starts blowing. And his singing style goes well with his playing. Not the most powerful voice in the blues, but smooth and heartfelt. He expressed passion in a low-key way. Watch him play during "Your Funeral And My Trial", straining to make the instrument sing and yet when he sings, smooth is what comes out. Maybe even better than smooth would be matter-of-fact. He's not shouting it, but he means what he says. And you'd better listen.
A few sites to learn more about him:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonny_Boy_Williamson_II
http://www.sonnyboy.com/
http://www.bluesworld.com/GDWSonnyboy.html
Without further ado, some videos:
This is a classic. It takes awhile to get going but listen to Sonny Boy and the producer get testy with each other at the beginning. Hilarious! But very naughty language.
A few sites to learn more about him:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonny_Boy_Williamson_II
http://www.sonnyboy.com/
http://www.bluesworld.com/GDWSonnyboy.html
Without further ado, some videos:
This is a classic. It takes awhile to get going but listen to Sonny Boy and the producer get testy with each other at the beginning. Hilarious! But very naughty language.
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What makes it rarer still, is that Muddy is performing without his guitar.
He looks somewhat uncomfortable.
