Pinetop Perkins

Introduction

Pinetop Perkins was a legendary blues musician and pianist whose career spanned over 70 years. He is known for his influential playing style which has inspired countless other musicians.

Let me introduce you to the life and legacy of Pinetop Perkin. From his early beginnings through to the award-winning albums he made later in life. Whether you’re a fan of blues or simply curious about this famous musician, there’s something here for everyone.

Key Takeaways

1. Pinetop Perkins was a legendary blues musician and pianist whose career spanned for over 70 years, and is known for his influential playing style.
2. He recorded two tracks with Robert Nighthawk on Chess Records in 1940s. Then joinrd Muddy Waters’ band and recording albums for other labels such as Black & Blue, Alligator, Blind Pig etc.
3. He achieved considerable acclaim internationally. Resulting in him being given multiple awards such as the Blues Music Awards (Lifetime Achievement Award – 2001), National Heritage Fellowship from US Artists (2005) etc; he won four Grammy Awards for “Joined At The Hip” with Willie “Big Eyes” Smith (2008).
4. Pinetop Perkins founded the Pinetop Perkins Foundation to support young musicians and help foster a new generation of blues artists

Life and Career of Pinetop Perkins

Pinetop Perkins was a blues musician who initially played guitar before switching to piano after suffering an injury. He gained fame when he joined Muddy Waters’ band in 1969. He left his mark on the music scene with his solo ventures and collaborations.

Early career

Pinetop Perkins was a pioneer in the blues genre and is remembered as one of its most influential and innovative figures. His career started in Belzoni, Mississippi when he was just 18 years old, after playing the guitar since his early teens.

He played for local house parties before joining Robert Nighthawk’s band in 1940s. He began to play the piano following an attack which left him with severed tendons in his left arm.

During this period Perkins recorded two tracks with Nighthawk on Chess Records. He later joined Muddy Waters’ band after Otis Spann left and moved from Mississippi to Helena, Arkansas. Where he appeared regularly on Sonny Boy Williamson’s radio program “King Biscuit Time”.

Over the next few decades Perkins recorded numerous albums with various other performers. It wasn’t until 1993 that he achieved wider recognition when Pinetop reemerged as part of trio called “The Aces”. He signed for Rounder Records to launch himself into the new wave of blues music artist at age 80.

In 1996 Billboard magazine named him their Century Award recipient as one of honorees among five musicians. To represent all genres including R&B, Cajun/Zydeco Country/Folk/Bluegrass or Reggae Music – honoring a living artist whose achievements have had.

Later career

Pinetop Perkins continued to be an influential figure in the blues genre throughout the 1980s and 1990s. He recorded albums for various labels, including Black & Blue, Alligator, Blind Pig, Antone’s, Omega, Deluge and Earwig.

From 1989, he collaborated with harmonica player Willie “Big Eyes” Smith. Their 2010 album, “Joined at the Hip”, won a Grammy. In 2008 at age 95 the Jazz Foundation of America relocated from his home in Belzoni Mississippi to Austin Texas. Where he started performing regularly again.

As a result of his impressive musical career Pinetop Perkins was given multiple awards and honors such as a Lifetime Achievement Award from The Blues Music Awards in 2001 and National Heritage Fellowship awarded by The United States Artists (USA) organizationin 2005.

Awards and honors

Pinetop Perkins had a long and fruitful career, during which he was showered with awards and honors for both his musical achievements and contributions to the blues music community.

1. In 2000, Perkins was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame.
2. He received the National Heritage Fellowship Award from the National Endowment for the Arts in 2003.
3. In 2005, Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour declared July 7th “Pinetop Perkins Day”.
4. Also in 2005, Perkins was nominated for a Grammy award for Best Traditional Blues Album for his album Pinetop Perkins and Friends at 85 Years Young.
5. In 2006, he was presented with an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Allentown College of Saint Francis de Sales.
6. Pinetop’s solo album After Hours won a Grammy in 2007 for best traditional blues album as well as a W.C Handy Award in 2008.
7. At 97 years old, he became the oldest recipient of a Grammy Award when his collaboration with Willie “Big Eyes” Smith on Joined at The Hip won him another Grammy in 2010 .

Influence

Pinetop Perkins was known as a master of the blues, playing a unique style of boogie-woogie piano. His skill and unique sound helped establish him as an iconic figure in the genre, inspiring other musicians, from amateurs to seasoned vets.

He collaborated with some of top names in blues music history such as Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, Muddy Waters and Robert Nighthawk—recording with them for Chess brothers records—and even toured briefly on Otis Spann’s radio show King Biscuit Time.

Despite his humble beginnings playing impromptu gigs and house parties around Mississippi during the late 1940s. He gained acclaim performing at clubs like Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale with Michael Ternricky and Kenny Brown. Then making waves across Europe throughout 2016 & 2017 before his passing onstage at Austin City Limits Festival. The 97 year old legend Pinetop Perkins shaped countless lives through Music. Today artist from young up comers to vetran producers revere his name.

Legacy of Pinetop Perkins

Pinetop Perkins left behind an incredible legacy; a Grammy-winning album, countless accolades, and highly influential blues recordings. Read on to explore his enduring impact on the blues community.

Documentaries

1. King of the Boogie: A Tribute to Pinetop Perkins (2010): This film features exclusive interviews and performances from some of the biggest names in blues, such as B.B. King and Hubert Sumlin, honoring the life and career of Pinetop Perkins. The movie was released on DVD at the Pixies Theatre in Clarksdale for his 97th birthday celebration on July 7, 2010.
2. Left Arm of God – Remembering Pinetop Perkins (2012): This documentary dives into the life of legendary bluesman Pinetop Perkins through music, stories, photographs and more that span his incredible 98 years on earth from 1913 to 2011 when he passed away at peacefully March 21stin Austin after a brief illness shortly before his 99th birthday
3. Last of The Great Mississippi Bluesmen Recorded Live In Dallas (2014): This live album/documentary chronicles captured recordings from five icons knowns as “The Last Of The Great Mississippi Delta Bluesmen” which includes Muddy Waters guitarists Johnny Winter; Honeyboy Edwards;early acoustic masters Willie “Big Eyes” Smith and Henry Townsend;and late pianist legendshepherd Earl Hooker— who later were joined by Otis Spann and joined producer Ed Blandto shape their own formative musical expression.”

4- Crossroads Guitar Festival 2013: Eric Clapton celebrated an All Star jam session during this Chicago festival honoring the legacyof PineTop performing Spoonful with Derek Trucks adn Chester Burnett AKA Howlin’ Wolf on stage alongside artists like Robert Randolph & Family Band, Los Lobos , Jimmie Vaughan , Billy Gibbons adn many more honorary guests!

Selected discography

Pinetop Perkins was a master of the blues piano who left a rich legacy of music throughout his long and illustrious career. From collaborative albums with Willie “Big Eyes” Smith to features in some of the most acclaimed blues recordings of all time, here are some of Pinetop Perkins’s most notable works:

• Pinetop’s Boogie Woogie (1972) – Pinetop’s debut solo album, featuring his boogie woogie piano style.
• Blues Masters Vol. 8: Boogie Woogie Piano (1991) – Collaboration album with Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, showcasing blues piano duets.
• Muddy Waters: The Anthology (2001) – Features Perkins on piano on selections from Muddy Waters classics like Folk Singer and Electric Mud.
• Pinetop Perkins and Friends (2003) – Collaborative album with Hubert Sumlin, Willie “Big Eyes” Smith and other blues legends.
• Ladies Man (2008) – One of Pinetop’s last albums, garnered him a Grammy nomination for his rendition of the title track.
• Joined at the Hip (2010) – Grammy-winning collaboration with Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, one of Pinetop’s final recordings before his passing in 2011.
• Blues at Newport (Recorded 1963, released 2018) – Live album featuring Pinetop accompanying Muddy Waters at the iconic Newport Folk Festival.
• Portrait of a Delta Bluesman (Recorded 1960, released 2022) – Rediscovered recordings from early in Pinetop’s career, before he joined Muddy Waters’ band.

Recognition and tributes

Pinetop Perkins was a respected and acclaimed blues musician. He received many honors and awards in recognition of his lifetime achievements.

2000	Perkins was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame.
2003	He received the National Heritage Fellowship Award from the National Endowment for the Arts.
2005	Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour declared July 7th “Pinetop Perkins Day
2006	Presented with an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Allentown College of Saint Francis de Sales.
2007	Pinetop’s solo album After Hours won a Grammy in 2007
2008	W.C Handy Award for “After Hours” solo album
2010	At 97 years old, he became the oldest recipient of a Grammy Award when his collaboration with Willie “Big Eyes” Smith on Joined at The Hip won him another Grammy

The Pinetop Perkins Foundation

The Pinetop Perkins Foundation seeks to promote the legacy of legendary blues artist, Pinetop Perkins by providing support and guidance to young musicians with an interest in learning Blues music.

Mission and goals

The Pinetop Perkins Foundation is a non-profit, preserves blues music legacy and provides opportunities for young musicians The foundation honors pianist Pinetop Perkins by celebrating his contributions to blues through various programs, initiatives, and grants.

The foundation aims to preserve blues history, build a lasting talent legacy, and inspire future generations through innovative education programs. Their goal is to offer American youth access to scholarships, mentorships, resources, support, networking opportunities. As well as access to new technology tools to pursue their dreams.

Each year they host an annual awards ceremony. Where they recognizes outstanding achievements in music performance. Awards and grants are also distributed throughout Mississippi.

Support for youth in music

The Pinetop Perkins Foundation actively works to continue the influence of the blues musician Founded by Pinetop Perkins’ family, this nonprofit aids young musicians.

The foundation’s mission officially launched following Pinetop’s passing at age 97 after he became the oldest Grammy winner ever for best traditional blues album (“Joined at the Hip”) with harmonica player Willie “Big Eyes” Smith.

This award affirmed Pinball’s continued impact on the genre before his passing in 2011.

The foundation takes a two-pronged approach: supporting talent development through workshops and apprenticeships, as well as providing gear grants designed specifically for students and up-and-coming artists nationwide.

Remembering Pinetop Perkins

Pinetop Perkins, a living legend, left an immense impact on the blues community.

Fond memories and personal anecdotes

Pinetop Perkins left a lasting imprint on the blues community. Whether it was with House Parties, Muddy Waters’ band, or later in life when he became the oldest-ever recipient of a Grammy award at 97 years old – those who knew him can remember his skill and kindness forever.

Much of that fondness remained widespread as prolific guitarist B.B King said after news broke about Pinetop’s death, “He was one of the last great Mississippi bluesmen”. His signature tune – “Pinetop’s Boogie Woogie” made an indelible mark into most fans ears but that barely scratched the surface regarding what kind of musician he truly was.

He also collaborated with Sonny Boy Williamson’s widow to help found Piano Tuners for Needy Kids. He also wrote songs for other living legends like Willie Dixon and Honeyboy Edwards.

Impact on the blues community

Exceptional blues musician Pinetop Perkins, known for his piano skills and collaborations, left a lasting impact on the genre. Through four decades of success, record sales, and awards, he became a major figure in modern blues history.

In the early 1950s, Pinetop collaborated with Robert Nighthawk and Sonny Boy Williamson. Recording for Chess Records and performing on King Biscuit Time Radio Show, notably on ‘Pinetop’s Boogie Woogie’.

In 1953, after two recordings boosted his fame in Europe, Pinetop formed The Legendary Blues Band. He joined Muddy Waters’ band in 1976.

Conclusion

Pinetop Perkins was one of the greatest blues piano players in history and an important figure in the genre. Acclaimed for his talent, Perkins won a Grammy for ‘Joined at The Hip’ with Willie Smith.

He founded the Pinetop Perkins Foundation to support young musicians and helped foster a new generation of blues artists. Through collaborations with other major musicians, Perkins created music that truly captured the spirit of traditional blues.

His influence, illuminating struggles through soulful beats, will endure in Mississippi, Chicago, and beyond, impacting future generations.

FAQ’s

Q: Who is Pinetop Perkins?

A: Pinetop Perkins was a blues pianist who gained recognition for his contributions to the genre. He had a long and successful career, starting from his early days in Mississippi to later Grammy wins.

Q: What is Pinetop Perkins’ biography?

A: Pinetop Perkins was born in Mississippi and grew up working on cotton fields. Discovering his musical passion early, he became a highly respected blues pianist.

Q: With which Mississippi city is Pinetop Perkins associated?

A: Clarksdale, Mississippi, the birthplace of blues, has a link with Pinetop Perkins. He spent a significant part of his early career in this city.

Q: What is Pinetop Perkins’ connection to the Ground Zero Blues Club?

A: Pinetop Perkins had a close connection to the Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi. He was a frequent and regular performer at the club.

Q: When did Pinetop Perkins win his first Grammy?

A: Pinetop Perkins won his first Grammy in 2011 at the age of 97. He won Best Traditional Blues Album for “Joined at the Hip,” recorded with Willie “Big Eyes” Smith.

Q: Who collaborated musically with Pinetop Perkins?

A: Pinetop Perkins collaborated with various notable musicians throughout his career, including Muddy Waters, Ike Turner, and Earl Hooker. He was also a part of the Muddy Waters Band for many years.

Q: What was Pinetop Perkins’ role in the blues genre?

A: Pinetop Perkins played a significant role in the blues genre as a skilled pianist. Pinetop Perkins was famed for his boogie-woogie style and advancing blues music

Q: Where was Pinetop Perkins born?

A: Pinetop Perkins was born in Belzoni, Mississippi on July 7, 1913.

Q: What is the significance of April 2 in Pinetop Perkins’ life?

A: Pinetop Perkins passed away aged 97 on April 2, 2011, a significant date in his life. It is a day to remember and celebrate his musical contributions.

Q: Who influenced Pinetop Perkins’ musical style?

A: Pinetop Perkins drew musical inspiration from Joe Willie, Willie Perkins, and Otis SpannTheir music played a significant role in shaping his own unique style.