What Happen to Big Joe and Slick Tone?

Big Joe and Slick Tone were two of the most influential figures in the blues music scene. They left an indelible mark on the genre, and their stories are as intriguing as the music they created. Let’s delve into the lives of these two legends and explore what happened to them.

Big Joe Williams: The Man with the Golden Voice

Big Joe Williams, born Joseph William William in 1914, was a blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He was known for his distinctive voice and his innovative guitar playing style. Williams’ career spanned several decades, and he worked with some of the biggest names in the blues industry.

Williams’ early life was marked by hardship. He was born into poverty in the Delta region of Mississippi, and he spent much of his youth working on plantations. Despite the challenges, he found solace in music. He learned to play the guitar and began performing at local juke joints.

Williams’ big break came in the 1940s when he moved to Chicago. He quickly gained a reputation for his unique sound and his ability to captivate audiences. He recorded several albums for the Chess Records label, including the classic “Drunken Man” and “Sinner’s Prayer.” His music was a blend of Delta blues, Chicago blues, and country blues, and it resonated with listeners worldwide.

However, Williams’ life was not without its struggles. He battled alcoholism throughout his career and faced financial difficulties. In the late 1950s, he moved to Europe, where he continued to perform and record. He spent the last years of his life in Germany, where he passed away in 1982.

Slick Tone: The Blues Guitar Virtuoso

Slick Tone, born Johnnie Taylor in 1938, was another influential figure in the blues world. He was known for his exceptional guitar skills and his soulful singing voice. Taylor’s music was a blend of blues, R&B, and gospel, and he was one of the first blues guitarists to incorporate soul elements into his performances.

Like Big Joe Williams, Taylor grew up in the Delta region of Mississippi. He learned to play the guitar at a young age and began performing at local clubs. In the early 1950s, he moved to Chicago, where he worked with several blues legends, including Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf.

Taylor’s big break came in 1959 when he signed with the Chess Records label. He recorded several albums for Chess, including the hit “I Can’t Stop Crying.” His music was a blend of blues and R&B, and it helped to bridge the gap between the two genres.

Throughout his career, Taylor faced numerous challenges. He struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction, and he spent time in and out of prison. Despite these struggles, he continued to perform and record. In the 1970s, he moved to Nashville, where he recorded several successful country albums.

However, Taylor’s health began to decline in the late 1980s. He was diagnosed with liver disease and passed away in 1997. His legacy, however, lives on through his music and the influence he had on future generations of blues and R&B musicians.

Legacy and Influence

Big Joe Williams and Slick Tone were two of the most influential figures in the blues music scene. Their music has left an indelible mark on the genre, and their stories continue to inspire musicians and fans alike.

Williams’ innovative guitar playing style and soulful singing voice helped to shape the sound of blues music. His music has influenced countless musicians, including Eric Clapton, John Mayer, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. His legacy is a testament to the power of music to overcome adversity and touch the hearts of listeners.

Taylor’s unique blend of blues, R&B, and gospel helped to bridge the gap between the two genres. His music has influenced artists such as B.B. King, Buddy Guy, and John Lee Hooker. His ability to incorporate soul elements into his performances has inspired countless musicians to explore new sounds and styles.

Both Big Joe Williams and Slick Tone left behind a rich musical legacy that continues to inspire and influence musicians and fans worldwide. Their stories serve as a reminder of the power of music to transcend time and place, and their contributions to the blues genre will never be forgotten.