<back - HUBERT SUMLIN - The simple recitation of historical and biographical facts is inadequate when explaining the monumental contributions of Hubert Sumlin--Howlin' Wolf's guitarist. That Hubert Sumlin was a superb sideman only scrapes the surface. His highly distinctive instrumental voice not merely formed a natural adjunct to Howlin' Wolf's earth shattering groans, it also added brilliant layers via its own right, enticing the listener’s attention as forcefully as the Wolf’s assertions. Blues guitarists have swooned over the inventive bent notes that Sumlin chose in response to Wolf’s volcanic eruptions.

Here’s Bob Margolin testifying to its overall impact: “When Hubert plays guitar, he takes you to his world of Blues Feeling, from despair to ecstasy, from delicate grace to raw power, from lost to found. His style is original and personal and instantly recognizable. What kind of man can make or break your heart with his guitar?' Hubert Sumlin was born 1931 in Greenwood Ms. In 1945 the call of the Wolf (already a well-established artist) beckoned when Hubert sneaked a peak through a juke joint window where Chester Burnett was holding sway. That would lead to an unforgettable 30-year old artistic and 'father/son' relationship, until the Wolf’s death in 1976. Wolf explain's: I come in possession of Hubert in West Memphis. See, by my playing around the country he fell in love with me and he wanted to stay with me so I just kept him.' The Wolf relocated to Chicago in 1950, followed by his various guitarists (Jody Williams, Willie Johnson), with Hubert taking up residence in 1953. Sumlin was still developing his own guitar style, and had a tendency to overwhelm the singer, so Wolf suggested he abandon the guitar pick and trust his fingers. Heeding this advice, he embarked on perfecting this technique with cool craftsmanship, resulting in a softer and more expressive tone, one perfectly framed to respond to the Wolf’s moans and groans. It would be those early 60’s Chess sides on which Hubert Sumlin's playing crossed the boundary line from impressive to legendary. The guitar playing on Hidden Charms, 300 Pounds of Joy, Killing Floor, Wang Dang Doodle, Louise, and numerous others. With joyful abandon Hubert Sumlin extracted a compact cavalcade of unpredictable yet wonderful ideas. After Wolf's passing, Hubert’s impeccable tone could be heard with Eddie Shaw's Wolfpack. In 1987, guitarist Ronnie Earl arranged for an all-star salute to Sumlin, the result being the immensely satisfying Hubert Sumlin's Blues Party. During a 50 year career, Hubert Sumlin has played with a wide array of other artists, including Eric Clapton, James Cotton, Carl Perkins, Levon Helm, and Jimmie Vaughan. Hubert Sumlin's contribution to the lexicon of Blues guitar playing will endure as long as the legacy of Howlin' Wolf's. -GaryTate/ MP3- KILLIN' FLOOR |