# Howlin' Wolf

> American blues musician (1910–1976)

**Wikidata**: [Q44780](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q44780)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howlin'_Wolf)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/howlin-wolf

## Summary
Howlin' Wolf (1910–1976) was an American blues musician, singer, guitarist, and songwriter, renowned for his powerful voice and influential contributions to Chicago blues. As a key artist for Chess Records, he helped shape the sound of modern blues and rock music, leaving a lasting legacy in American musical history.

## Biography
- **Born:** June 10, 1910
- **Nationality:** United States
- **Known for:** Pioneering Chicago blues music, influential recordings with Chess Records, and shaping the sound of modern blues and rock
- **Employer(s):** Chess Records, Checker Records
- **Field(s):** Music (blues, rhythm and blues), songwriting, performance

## Contributions
Howlin' Wolf's contributions to music include:
- **Recordings with Chess Records:** Produced landmark blues albums and singles, including "Smokestack Lightning" and "Back Door Man," which became blues standards.
- **Influence on Rock Music:** His work with Chess Records helped bridge blues and rock, influencing artists like The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin.
- **Songwriting:** Wrote or co-wrote numerous blues classics, many of which were covered by later rock and blues artists.
- **Live Performances:** Known for his dynamic stage presence and deep, gravelly voice, which became iconic in blues music.

## FAQs
**What was Howlin' Wolf's real name?**
Howlin' Wolf's real name was Chester Arthur Burnett.

**What record label was Howlin' Wolf associated with?**
He was primarily associated with Chess Records, a legendary blues label based in Chicago, and its subsidiary, Checker Records.

**What genre of music did Howlin' Wolf perform?**
He was a blues musician, specializing in Chicago blues, rhythm and blues, and early rock influences.

**Was Howlin' Wolf inducted into any halls of fame?**
Yes, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant impact on music.

**What are some of Howlin' Wolf's most famous songs?**
Some of his most famous songs include "Smokestack Lightning," "Back Door Man," and "The Red Rooster."

## Why They Matter
Howlin' Wolf matters because he was one of the most influential figures in blues music, helping to define the Chicago blues sound that became a cornerstone of rock and roll. His recordings with Chess Records captured the raw energy and emotional depth of blues, preserving a critical era in American music history. His work influenced generations of musicians, from blues artists to rock legends, ensuring his place as a foundational figure in modern music. Without his contributions, the development of blues and rock would lack some of its most iconic sounds and styles.

## Notable For
- **Blues Legend:** One of the most influential Chicago blues musicians of all time.
- **Chess Records Artist:** Key figure in the label's roster, alongside Muddy Waters and Chuck Berry.
- **Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee:** Recognized for his lasting impact on music.
- **Iconic Voice:** Known for his deep, powerful vocal style that became a hallmark of blues music.
- **Songwriting:** Authored blues standards that have been covered by countless artists.
- **Live Performer:** Renowned for his electrifying stage presence and performances.
- **Cultural Impact:** Helped bring blues music to broader audiences, influencing rock and roll's development.

## Body

### Early Life and Career
Howlin' Wolf, born Chester Arthur Burnett on June 10, 1910, was an American blues musician who became one of the most iconic figures in the genre. He began his musical career in the 1930s, performing in the Mississippi Delta before moving to Chicago, where he became a central figure in the city's blues scene. His deep, gravelly voice and powerful stage presence set him apart from other blues musicians of his time.

### Musical Style and Influence
Howlin' Wolf's musical style was rooted in the Delta blues tradition, but he adapted it to the electrified sound of Chicago blues. His recordings with Chess Records, including classics like "Smokestack Lightning" and "Back Door Man," showcased his unique vocal delivery and guitar playing. These recordings not only defined the Chicago blues sound but also influenced the development of rock music, with artists like The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin citing him as a major inspiration.

### Record Label and Collaborations
Howlin' Wolf was signed to Chess Records, one of the most influential independent record labels in American music history. Founded in 1950 by Leonard and Phil Chess, the label specialized in blues, rhythm and blues, and rock and roll. Howlin' Wolf's work with Chess Records helped establish the label's reputation as a powerhouse in blues music. He also recorded for Checker Records, a subsidiary of Chess, further expanding his reach in the music industry.

### Awards and Recognition
Howlin' Wolf's contributions to music were recognized with his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This honor underscores his lasting impact on the music industry and his role in shaping the sound of modern blues and rock. His recordings continue to be celebrated for their authenticity and influence, ensuring his legacy endures in the annals of music history.

### Legacy and Cultural Impact
Howlin' Wolf's legacy extends beyond his recordings. He was a pivotal figure in the transition from traditional blues to the more amplified, urban sound of Chicago blues. His music not only captivated audiences during his lifetime but also laid the groundwork for future generations of musicians. His influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who followed, making him a cornerstone of American musical heritage.

### Personal Details and Identifiers
Howlin' Wolf was known by several aliases, including Chester Arthur Burnett, Howling Wolf, Chester A. Burnett, and Chester Burnett. His work is documented in various databases and knowledge graphs, with identifiers such as Wikidata ID Q1178775 and Freebase ID /m/0165hs. His recordings and performances remain a vital part of the blues canon, studied and celebrated by music enthusiasts worldwide.

### Later Life and Death
Howlin' Wolf continued to perform and record music throughout his life, maintaining his status as a blues legend. He passed away on January 10, 1976, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to inspire and influence artists to this day. His contributions to blues and rock music ensure that his name remains synonymous with the genre's golden era.

## References

1. Biographical Dictionary of Afro-American and African Musicians
2. Integrated Authority File
3. [Source](https://memphismusichalloffame.com/inductee/howlinwolf/)
4. LIBRIS. 2018
5. Howlin’ Wolf (1910-1976), musician
6. [Find a Grave](https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/1227/chester-burnett)
7. BlackPast.org
8. International Standard Name Identifier
9. Virtual International Authority File
10. MusicBrainz
11. BnF authorities
12. IMDb
13. Find a Grave
14. Muziekweb
15. Autoritats UB
16. NUKAT
17. KANTO
18. MAK
19. datos.bne.es
20. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
21. CONOR.SI
22. BBC Things
23. The Movie Database