Watch Sonny Boy Williamson performing in Europe in 1963 here:

Sonny Boy Williamson II’s life story is convoluted and full of contradictions - even his real name and date of birth are debatable! - but he became one of the world’s most influential blues artists. A songwriter, vocalist and harmonica player, his career break came through his broadcasts on the ‘King Biscuit Time’ radio show in Helena Arkansas and then his recordings for the Trumpet and Chess labels. He toured Europe as part of the American Folk Blues Festival and appeared at the Marquee in 1963 and 1964. He had a huge impact on British blues artists; the Eric Clapton-era Yardbirds backed him on a UK college tour and recorded with him, as did the Animals, Jimmy Page and Brian Auger and the Trinity. His songs were also covered by the Moody Blues, Led Zeppelin, Ten Years After and the Who. Williamson died in his sleep at home in May 1965.