Chester Arthur Burnett, named Chester Arthur after the 21st President of the United States, was born in White Station, MS on June 10, 1910. His prominent physical stature, 6' 3", 275 pounds, may have contributed to his earning the moniker, "Howlin' Wolf" at an early age.
As a young man, Wolf learned guitar at the hands of Delta Blues great Charlie Patton. Wolf was also known for his growling-type singing as well as harmonica playing. Other influences included Blind Lemon Jefferson, Sonny Boy Williamson, and Jimmy Rodgers. While learning his craft, Wolf performed with the likes of Honeyboy Edwards, Sonny Boy Williamson II, and Robert Jr. Lockwood.
Wolf was inducted into the United States Army on April 9, 1941. He was promptly discharged on November 3, 1943. Once discharged, he went to live with family and work the farm in West Memphis, AR. In West Memphis, he continued to perform, including gigs for radio station KWEM in West Memphis and on KKFA in Helena, AR with Sonny Boy Williamson. He would use these programs to promote his appearances in the area. While in Memphis, in 1951, he recorded several songs for eventual Sun Records founder Sam Phillips.
He ultimately signed with Chess Records and made the move north to Chicago. Many of his well-known hits, including "Back Door Man", "Wang Dang Doodle" and "Spoonful" were written by Chess Records' producer Willie Dixon.
In the 1960s Wolf's career experienced a resurgence while touring the European blues festival circuit. He also met and performed with many British blues artists that were influenced by his sound such as the Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood.
During the 1970s, Wolf suffered from several health issues, passing away on January 10, 1976 at the age of 65 in Hines, IL. His legacy has continued to live on. He was elected to the Blues Hall of Fame in 1980. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted him as an Early Influence in 1991. Wolf's 1956 Chess recording of "Smokestack Lightnin'" was named to the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999. His home state honored him by electing him to the Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame in 2003. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame also listed three of his recordings, "Smokestack Lightnin'", "Spoonful" and "Red Rooster" to the "500 Songs That Shaped Rock & Roll".
What better way to celebrate Halloween night than to hear Howlin' Wolf belting out some of his best tunes? Just listen to that distinctive howl barking at the moon. Until next time, boys and girls. Keep It Bluesy!
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