Howlin’ Wolf

Date of Birth: June 10, 1910

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: January 10, 1976

Biography

Chester Arthur Burnett, better known by his stage name Howlin’ Wolf, was an influential American blues singer, guitarist, and harmonica player. Howlin’ Wolf was born on June 10, 1910, in White Station, Mississippi. His powerful voice and imposing physical presence made him one of the most dynamic performers in the history of blues music. Wolf began his musical journey under the tutelage of blues legends such as Charley Patton and Sonny Boy Williamson II. He moved to Chicago in the early 1950s, where he signed with Chess Records and recorded some of his most enduring hits, including “Smokestack Lightnin’,” “Back Door Man,” and “Spoonful.” His music played a significant role in shaping the Chicago blues sound and influenced a wide range of musicians, from the Rolling Stones to Led Zeppelin. Throughout his career, Howlin’ Wolf’s raw, emotive performances and unique vocal style captivated audiences. Despite his rough and tough stage persona, those who knew him personally often spoke of his kindness and generosity. Howlin’ Wolf passed away on January 10, 1976, in Hines, Illinois, but his legacy lives on through his recordings and the countless artists he inspired.

5 Interesting Facts about Howlin’ Wolf

1. Howlin’ Wolf was 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighed around 300 pounds, making him an imposing figure on stage.

2. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, although his time in service was brief and tumultuous.

3. His stage name “Howlin’ Wolf” was inspired by his grandfather, who warned him about “howlin’ wolves” when he misbehaved as a child.

4. He was a contemporary and sometimes rival of another blues legend, Muddy Waters.

5. Howlin’ Wolf was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 as an early influence.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Howlin’ Wolf

1. “I couldn’t do no yodelin’, so I turned to howlin’. And it’s done me just fine.”

2. “I am the wolf.”

3. “I don’t play no rock and roll, I play the blues. Real blues.”

4. “The blues is the roots; everything else is the fruits.”

5. “When you ain’t got no money, you got the blues.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Howlin’ Wolf’s net worth was estimated to be around $500,000, which was a significant amount for a blues musician of his era.