Take 5 With Henry Gray

Legendary blues pianist and singer Henry Gray passed away on February 17 at the age of 95. The Louisiana native was an important part of the Chicago blues scene from 1946-1968, including spending 12 years with Howlin' Wolf. One of a number of pianists who were influenced by big Maceo, Gray was a strong two-handed player who played on recordings by Wolf, Morris Pejoe, Jimmy Reed, Junior Wells, Billy boy Arnold and others.

In 1968, he moved back to Louisiana and became an important part of the Baton Rouge blues scene. I believe his first recordings were on an Arhoolie Anthology, but he would record for a number of labels over the next 50+ years, as well as toured blues clubs and festivals throughout the world. Here is a short playlist of some of the recordings he played on as a sideman and as a leader.

First up is "Matchbox Blues" which Henry recorded for Chess Records.

Next up is Henry backing Billy Boy Arnold on the Vee-Jay recording, "I Was Fooled."

Henry played on a number of Howlin' Wolf recordings including "I Ain't Superstitious."

After he moved to Louisiana he recorded more frequently under his own name. Here is a selection for his "Lucky Man" album, "Finger Snappin' Boogie."

Finally, we leave with him performing "Blues Won't Let Me Take My Rest."