Little Walter – Biography and History
Little Walter, born Marion Walter Jacobs on May 1, 1930, in Marksville, Louisiana, is celebrated as one of the greatest harmonica players in the history of blues music. His early life in rural Louisiana was marked by poverty and limited opportunities. Little Walter left home at a young age, around 12 years old, to pursue a career in music, which led him to travel across the South, absorbing the diverse musical styles of the region.
Walter’s journey brought him to Chicago in 1945, a city that was becoming a hotspot for blues musicians. In Chicago, he immersed himself in the vibrant blues scene and began to establish his reputation. His breakthrough came when he started playing with Muddy Waters’ band in 1948. This collaboration proved to be pivotal for both musicians. Walter’s innovative approach to the harmonica, marked by his amplified sound, significantly enhanced the band’s music. This partnership resulted in some of the most iconic recordings in blues history, including “Louisiana Blues” and “Long Distance Call.”