Clara McDaniel facts for kids

Clara McDaniel, born on November 26, 1948, is an amazing American blues singer and songwriter. She released her very first album, Unwanted Child, in 1997. Clara has also worked with many famous blues musicians. These include Albert King, Tommy Bankhead, Bobby Bland, Little Milton, Oliver Sain, and Ike Turner.

Clara's Life and Music Journey

Clara McDaniel was born in Pontiac, Michigan, in the United States. She grew up in a family that loved music. Her uncle, Dusty Brown, played the harmonica and even recorded music in the 1950s. Clara started singing and playing the piano at her church.

In 1966, her family moved to St. Louis, Missouri. As a teenager there, Clara met the legendary blues musician Muddy Waters.

Learning and Performing

Clara continued to learn about music by visiting many nightclubs. She performed with other musicians like Big Bad Smitty and Big George. A very important moment was when she teamed up with Albert King. This led to her touring with King in the southern United States during the 1970s. Touring means traveling around to different places to perform concerts.

When Clara returned home, she even helped manage King's taxicabs. Later, she performed with many other great artists. These included Tommy Bankhead, Bobby Bland, Little Milton, Oliver Sain, and Ike Turner. During this time, Clara often had two or three jobs. Her singing was mostly on weekends.

She performed at the St. Louis Blues Festival as "Big Clara and the Magnatones." In 1995, she traveled to the Netherlands for a European tour.

Her First Album and Family Life

In 1997, Clara McDaniel recorded her first album, called Unwanted Child. It was released by HighTone Records. After this, Clara moved to Arkansas. There, she gave birth to twins. She also became a foster mother to many children. Some of these children she later adopted, making them part of her family forever.

Awards and Recognition

Clara's talent was noticed! Blues & Rhythm, a blues magazine from Britain, named her 'Discovery of the Year'. In 1998, she was nominated for 'Female Blues Artist of the Year' by Living Blues magazine. These awards show how much her music was appreciated.

Clara's Music Albums

Clara McDaniel has released the following album:

See also

• List of electric blues musicians