R.I.P. Hubert Sumlin
Hubert Sumlin, the longtime collaborator with Howlin' Wolf whose playing on such songs as "Wang Dang Doodle," "Spoonful" and "Backdoor Man" influenced generations of guitarists has passed away.
The simple recitation of historical and biographical facts is inadequate when explaining the monumental contributions of Hubert Sumlin.
To say that he 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.
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?"
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.
Blues guitarists have swooned over the inventive bent notes that Sumlin chose in response to Wolf’s volcanic eruptions.
Sumlin was ranked number 43 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time and was a mainstay of the Chicago blues scene.
He was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2008.
Sumlin influenced Keith Richards, Jimi Hendrix and Frank Zappa, among others.
He was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2002 and had a lung removed.
In recent years Sumlin continued to perform when his health permitted.
Hubert Sumlin was 80 years old.
To view Hubert Sumlin's web site, click HERE.
