Big Mama Thornton
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Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton
(December, 1926 - July 25, 1984)
Big Mama Thornton was a student of the Classic female Blues style, she
played and sang in the vein of Ma Rainey and Memphis Minnie. She grew up
in a staunchly religious household, with her father being a preacher, and
when she was barely in her teens she left home to pursue her musical career.
She sang for a number of years in a musical group before finally winning a
recording contract in 1951. It was there that she recorded the famously iconic,
call and response style, blues staple, "
"Hounddog" which instantly went to the
top of the charts giving Thornton wide fame and recognition. Three years after
its release it was re-recorded by Elvis Presley. His version topped the charts
as well and was eventually named #19 on Rolling Stone Magazines 500 Greatest
Songs of All Time. After a successful stint with Peacock Records, she toured
and played extensively witht the likes of Junior Parker (MAH). Like many other
Blues singers of her era; she found a resurgence of success in the 60's folk
revival. Also, like many of her peers, she toured Europe as well.
She continued touring for the rest of life, and in 1984 she was inducted into the
Blues Hall of Fame. She passed away later that year though her legacy lived on.
She served as a influential to such promising artists as Janis Joplin, who
re-recorded her famous tune, "Ball and Chain".
Notable songs by Big Mama Thornton
