Willie Morganfield facts for kids

Willie Morganfield (born July 11, 1927, died October 18, 2003) was an American gospel musician and a minister. He started his music career in 1959. His first song, "What Is This?", became very popular. Another gospel singer, Walter Hawkins, made a famous version of it later.

Most of his music was released by Jewel Records. Some songs also came out on Paula Records. His album Golden Hits was released in 1984. It was his only album to appear on the Billboard magazine Gospel Albums chart. This means it was one of the most popular gospel albums at the time.

Early Life

Willie Morganfield was born on July 11, 1927, in Stovall, Mississippi. He grew up in Memphis, Tennessee. His father was a preacher at King Solomon's Church. Willie Morganfield later became a pastor himself. He led the Bell Grove Baptist Church in Clarksdale, Mississippi, until he passed away.

He was also a cousin of McKinley Morganfield. You might know McKinley better by his stage name, Muddy Waters. Muddy Waters was a famous blues musician who also lived on the Stovall plantation.

Music Career

Willie Morganfield's music career began with his song "What Is This?". This song became a classic in gospel music. Many other artists, like Brother Joe May, recorded their own versions of it. The song was often played on gospel radio stations.

He released most of his albums with Jewel Records. A few of his recordings were released by Paula Records. His album, Golden Hits, came out in 1984. This album was his only one to reach the Billboard magazine Gospel Albums chart. It reached number 34 on that chart.

Family Life

Reverend Willie Morganfield was married to Jane Anna Morganfield. They had four children: Cassandra, Reginald, Delories, and Theresa. They also had several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Willie Morganfield passed away in Memphis, Tennessee, on October 18, 2003.

Music Albums