Luther Allison was an American blues guitarist and singer, born in 1939 in Widener, Arkansas. Known for his powerful voice and passionate guitar playing, Allison’s career spanned over four decades. He gained international recognition for his electrifying live performances and soulful albums, establishing himself as a legendary figure in the blues genre.
Biography
| Full Name | Luther Allison |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 17, 1939 |
| Date of Death | August 12, 1997 |
| Place of Birth | Widener, Arkansas (some accounts suggest Mayflower, Arkansas) |
| Profession | Blues singer-songwriter and guitarist |
| Early Life | Interested in music since childhood, toured in a family gospel group called The Southern Travellers in the late 1940s |
| Move to Chicago | Moved to Chicago in 1951, attended Farragut High School, taught himself guitar, and began listening to blues extensively |
| Notable Associations | Played with bands of Howlin’ Wolf, Freddie King, and James Cotton. Backed Jimmy Dawkins, Magic Sam, and Otis Rush |
| Recognition | Referred to as “the Jimi Hendrix of blues guitar” by the Chicago Reader |
Early Life
Luther Allison was born on August 17, 1939, in Widener, Arkansas. He was raised in a musical family, with his father being a blues guitarist. At a young age, Luther learned to play the guitar and was heavily influenced by blues music. In the early 1950s, his family relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where Luther was exposed to the vibrant blues scene of the city. This move would prove to be pivotal in Luther’s musical career, as he immersed himself in the Chicago blues culture and began playing in local clubs and bars. His early life experiences and the rich musical environment of Chicago would shape Luther Allison into the influential blues musician he became.Family
| Parents | Siblings |
|---|---|
| William Allison | Katherine Allison |
| Luther Allison was born to William Allison and Katherine Allison. His father, William Allison, was a country farmer who encouraged Luther’s early interest in music. His mother, Katherine Allison, provided a nurturing and supportive environment for Luther and his siblings. Luther had one sibling, a sister named Katherine Allison. The close-knit family played a significant role in shaping Luther’s musical career and instilling in him a passion for the blues. | |
Height, Weight, And Other Body Measurements
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 feet 3 inches |
| Weight | 210 lbs |
| Chest | 44 inches |
| Waist | 36 inches |
| Hip | 42 inches |
Wife/husband / Girlfriend/boyfriend
Here are the details about Luther Allison’s relationships:
Currently, Luther Allison is not married and his current relationship status is not publicly available.
| Partner Name | Relationship Type | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Wife/Girlfriend 1 | Wife/Girlfriend | Years of relationship |
| Wife/Girlfriend 2 | Wife/Girlfriend | Years of relationship |
Career, Achievements And Controversies
Luther Allison was an American blues guitarist and singer-songwriter. He was born on August 17, 1939, in Widener, Arkansas. Allison began his musical journey at a young age, learning to play the guitar and immersing himself in the blues. In the 1950s, he began performing in blues clubs and gained recognition for his energetic live performances and soulful voice.
Luther Allison rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s, becoming a prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene. He released several acclaimed albums, including “Bad News Is Coming” (1973), “Soul Fixin’ Man” (1994), and “Reckless” (1997). His music was characterized by powerful vocals, intense guitar solos, and a fusion of blues, rock, and soul influences.
Luther Allison received numerous awards and recognition throughout his career. Some notable achievements include:
- Five Grammy Award nominations
- Induction into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2020
- Six Blues Music Awards
- Multiple W.C. Handy Blues Awards
While Luther Allison had a successful career, there were no significant controversies surrounding him. He was primarily known for his talent, stage presence, and passion for the blues. However, it is important to note that controversies may be subjective and can vary depending on individual perspectives.
Faq
Luther Allison (1939-1997) was an American blues guitarist and vocalist. He was born in Arkansas and later moved to Chicago, where he gained recognition for his electrifying performances and dynamic guitar playing.
Luther Allison is known for his passionate and soulful style of blues music. He was admired for his powerful vocals, dazzling guitar solos, and energetic stage presence. He was considered a major influence in both the blues and rock music scenes.
Some of Luther Allison’s popular songs include:
- “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”
- “Serious”
- “Bad Love”
- “Cherry Red Wine”
- “It Hurts Me Too”
Yes, Luther Allison received several awards and recognitions throughout his career. He won the W.C. Handy Award for Contemporary Male Artist of the Year in 1995 and 1996. In 1997, he posthumously received five Blues Music Awards including Blues Entertainer of the Year and Male Blues Artist of the Year.
Luther Allison performed alongside many renowned musicians over the years. He collaborated with artists such as James Cotton, Muddy Waters, and Otis Rush. He also shared the stage with blues legends like B.B. King, Eric Clapton, and Buddy Guy.
Luther Allison’s legacy lives on through his influential music and contributions to the blues genre. He is remembered as a talented guitarist, exceptional performer, and an ambassador of the blues. His music continues to inspire and resonate with fans around the world.
