Biography
Big Daddy 'O' (Owen Tufts) is a blues musician who has built a career performing in roadhouses and bars throughout the delta region near the Louisiana/Mississippi border for more than thirty years.[1][3] Standing 6'6" tall, he is known for his commanding stage presence and distinctive vocal range that can shift from a powerful shout to a delicate whisper.[1][3] Discovered by Rabadash Records playing at Betty's Bar in Amite, Louisiana around the turn of the century, Big Daddy 'O' has since released multiple critically acclaimed albums and expanded his reach to a national audience.[1] His musical approach transforms each song into a personal statement, performed either as a solo artist with an acoustic guitar custom-made by luthier Scott Quiroz or with a full blues band, showcasing his considerable blues skills on a 1969 Les Paul Deluxe.[1] His music has gained recognition beyond live performance, being featured in the award-winning animated feature film "The Magistical."[3]
Fun Facts
- Big Daddy 'O' performs with a 1969 Les Paul Deluxe guitar, a classic instrument that reflects his commitment to traditional blues aesthetics.[1]
- His wife Gretchen is actively involved in his career, greeting fans at every gig and confidently recommending that new listeners start with his first album, assuring them they'll want to collect them all.[3]
- His music was featured in the award-winning animated feature-length film "The Magistical," expanding his presence beyond traditional blues venues.[3]
- Big Daddy 'O' performs with a custom acoustic guitar handcrafted by San Diego-based luthier Scott Quiroz, demonstrating his investment in quality instruments.[1]
Musical Connections
Key Collaborators
- Rabadash Records - Record label that discovered and signed Big Daddy 'O', releasing multiple albums (Multiple CD releases including "Used Blues" (2010)) [Early 2000s onwards]
- Scott Quiroz - Guitar luthier who custom-made Big Daddy 'O's acoustic guitar (Custom acoustic guitar) [Unknown]
- Gretchen Tufts - Wife who assists with merchandise and fan engagement at performances (Live performances and CD sales) [Ongoing]
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Big Daddy O' has been played 9 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 28, 2026 | 14:01 | Got No Blues Todayfrom LIVE ON WWOZ | Sittin' at the Crossroadw/ Big D | |
| Jan 21, 2026 | 15:49 | I'm Still Herefrom LIVE ON WWOZ - Sitting at Teh Crossroad | Sittin' at the Crossroadw/ Big D | |
| Jan 21, 2026 | 14:05 | Got No Blues Todayfrom LIVE ON WWOZ | Sittin' at the Crossroadw/ Big D | |
| Jan 14, 2026 | 11:46 | oreo cookie blues | New Orleans Music Showw/ Missy Bowen | |
| Jan 7, 2026 | 14:03 | Got No Blues Todayfrom LIVE ON WWOZ | Sittin' at the Crossroadw/ Big D | |
| Dec 17, 2025 | 14:03 | Got No Blues Todayfrom LIVE ON WWOZ | Sittin' at the Crossroadw/ Big D | |
| Dec 10, 2025 | 14:04 | Got No Blues Todayfrom LIVE ON WWOZ | Sittin' at the Crossroadw/ Big D | |
| Oct 29, 2025 | 14:04 | Got No Blues Todayfrom LIVE ON WWOZ | Sittin' at the Crossroadw/ Big D | |
| Oct 22, 2025 | 14:04 | Got No Blues Todayfrom LIVE ON WWOZ | Sittin' at the Crossroadw/ Big D |