In addition to being one of the oldest American music genres, the blues is also the very foundation of rock ‘n’ roll. Without them, bands such as the Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and truly any other one worth a sweat likely wouldn’t exist. Frankly, rock ‘n’ roll likely wouldn’t exist. That being so, the blues have had an insurmountable impact on rock ‘n’ roll, and there are a few key figures who played a vital role in this impact. Some of those key figures include B.B. King, Skip James, Willie Dixon, and last but not least, Muddy Waters.
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Muddy Waters is arguably the father of modern blues music, and consequently, he influenced major bands and artists such as Cream, Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, and Chuck Berry. Furthermore, the Rolling Stones actually named themselves after Waters’ single, “Rollin’ Stone.” Needless to say, Muddy Waters was a big deal, a guiding light, and the spark that ignited the musical fire of the 20th century.
Waters’ track record is one of the most decorated in music history, both in tangible and intangible success. Consequently, when he passed away in 1983, he left a legacy that was far bigger than himself, and today marks the 42nd anniversary of Muddy Waters’ passing.
Behind Muddy Waters’ 70-Year Career
At 70 years old, Muddy Waters peacefully passed away during his sleep in Westmont, Illinois. Waters passed away due to complications of congestive heart failure and other cancer-related issues. Upon discovering him deceased, Muddy Waters was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove, Illinois, and officially pronounced dead.
Despite the tragic nature of this situation, Waters did have an incredibly fruitful life and career before his passing. In addition to his lasting legacy, Waters scored major success with his classic songs, “Mannish Boy,” “Baby, Please Don’t Go,” and “I’m Your Hoochie Coochie Man.” During his career, Waters collaborated with seemingly everyone under the sun, including Earl Hooker, Jimmy Rogers, Buddy Guy, Levon Helm, and so many other infamous musicians.
Furthermore, Waters also won several Grammys during his career, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement, which he won in 1992, years after his passing. Needless to say, Muddy Waters was, is, and always will be a true American icon. Without him, there is truly no way to know what the state of modern music would currently be, he was just that important.
Photo by Richard E. Aaron/Redferns
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