Wiley Reed facts for kids

Wiley Dean Reed (born January 5, 1944 – died October 7, 2012) was an amazing blues musician and songwriter. He was born in the United States but lived in Australia. Wiley was known for his powerful singing and for playing the piano.

Wiley Reed's Story

Wiley Reed was born in Jacksonville, Florida, USA, on January 5, 1944. He started singing in his church choir when he was just nine years old. He was already a very good musician before he moved to Australia in 1967.

Wiley traveled a lot! He toured all over the United States, Australia, and Europe. He even went to Vietnam three times to perform for the troops there.

Early Career in Australia

When Wiley first came to Australia, he started performing at a place called the Two Eyes Club. He played alongside other famous blues artists like Billy Thorpe, Phil Manning, Doug Parkinson, and Jeff St John.

Wiley became well-known for his deep, soulful singing style. People also remembered him for being very kind and helpful to other musicians.

Music and Awards

Wiley Reed's last recorded album was called Straight from the Heart, released in 2003. This album was very successful! It won three special awards called 'Sunnie' awards:

• Best Male Vocalist
• Best Blues Album
• Best Male Vocalist at the Gold Coast International Jazz and Blues Festival

In 2010, Wiley worked with a new group of musicians from Brisbane. They created and recorded new songs together. For this project, Wiley used a fun, made-up name: Moses 'Turkey Slap' Washington. This character was a fictional Delta bluesman who sang blues-rock songs with funny lyrics.

Final Performances

In 2012, Wiley Reed and his band were chosen to open the Broadbeach Blues Festival. They were also a main act on the big stage at the Noosa Jazz Festival that same year.

Wiley Reed passed away in a hospital in Brisbane, Australia, on October 7, 2012. He is remembered as a talented musician who shared his love for the blues with many people.