George "Harmonica" Smith facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Smith
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| Birth name | Allen George Smith |
| Also known as | George "Harmonica" Smith |
| Born | April 22, 1924 |
| Origin | West Helena, Arkansas USA |
| Died | October 2, 1983 (aged 59) Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Genres | Blues |
| Instruments | Blues harp |
| Years active | 1950s – 1980s |
| Associated acts | Muddy Waters, Bacon Fat |
George "Harmonica" Smith (born Allen George Smith; April 22, 1924 – October 2, 1983) was an important American blues harmonica player. He was known for his amazing skill with the harmonica, often called a "blues harp."
Contents
Early Life and Music Beginnings
George Smith was born in West Helena, Arkansas. He grew up in Cairo, Illinois. He started playing music professionally in 1951. This means he began earning money from his music.
Joining Famous Blues Bands
George "Harmonica" Smith joined the famous blues musician Muddy Waters' band in 1954. He played with them for a while. He later rejoined Muddy Waters' band in 1966.
After living in Chicago, he moved to the West Coast of the United States. He spent much of his adult life there.
Mentoring and Collaborations
Smith played with a blues group called Bacon Fat. He also helped teach their harmonica player, Rod Piazza. George "Harmonica" Smith was a mentor, meaning he guided and taught younger musicians.
In the 1970s, he played harmonica for another famous blues singer, Big Mama Thornton. He was featured on her album called Jail in 1975. Another one of his students was William Clarke, who also became a well-known harmonica player.
Musical Style and Legacy
When you listen to the solo albums George "Harmonica" Smith recorded, you can hear the influence of another great harmonica player, Little Walter. This means Little Walter's style inspired Smith's playing.
George "Harmonica" Smith passed away in 1983 in Los Angeles, California. He was 59 years old. His music continues to influence blues harmonica players today.
