Christone Kingfish Ingram

Biography

Christone "Kingfish" Ingram, born January 19, 1999, in Clarksdale, Mississippi, is widely recognized as one of the most exciting and influential young blues guitarists and vocalists of his generation[4][1]. Raised in the heart of the Mississippi Delta—a region synonymous with blues legends—Ingram was immersed in the genre from an early age, learning the history and techniques at the Delta Blues Museum’s music education program. He began performing locally while still in seventh grade, quickly gaining a devoted following through gigs at iconic venues such as Red's Lounge and Ground Zero Blues Club[4][3]. By age 15, he had already performed at the White House for Michelle Obama as part of the museum’s band[4][3].

Ingram’s career accelerated with the release of his debut album, "Kingfish," in 2019, produced by Grammy-winner Tom Hambridge and released on Alligator Records[4][2]. The album topped the Billboard Blues Chart and established him as a torchbearer for modern blues, blending traditional Delta influences with rock and R&B elements. His follow-up, "662" (2021), won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album, further cementing his reputation[4][3]. Ingram has toured globally, headlined major festivals, and opened for acts such as The Rolling Stones, Vampire Weekend, and Buddy Guy, who also mentored him[1][5]. His third album, "Live in London," was released in 2023 to critical acclaim[1].

Kingfish’s musical style draws deeply from Delta blues traditions while incorporating the emotional authority and technical prowess of artists like B.B. King, Jimi Hendrix, and Prince[1][3][7]. His rich baritone and expressive guitar work have made him a defining voice in contemporary blues. Beyond performance, Ingram launched his own label, Red Zero Records, in 2024, aiming to support the next generation of blues artists[4].

Fun Facts

• Kingfish performed for Michelle Obama at the White House when he was just 15 years old as part of the Delta Blues Museum band[4][3].
• His mother, Princess Pride, was a first cousin of legendary Black country star Charley Pride[3].
• Ingram was selected to open for The Rolling Stones in London’s Hyde Park in 2022[1][5].
• Fender released a custom Kingfish Telecaster Deluxe guitar in September 2022[4].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Buddy Guy - Mentor and collaborator; Guy helped finance Kingfish's debut album and regularly performed with him. (Kingfish (album), Austin City Limits appearance) [2017–present]
• Tom Hambridge - Producer and songwriter; produced Kingfish’s debut and subsequent albums. (Kingfish (album), 662 (album)) [2019–present]
• Delta Blues Museum teachers - Early music instructors who taught him blues history and technique. (Delta Blues Museum Band) [2005–2014]

Key Collaborators

• Vampire Weekend - Touring partner; performed 11 dates with the band. (2019 tour) [2019]
• Jason Isbell - Shared stage and performed together at festivals. (Live performances) [2019–present]
• Steve Miller - Live performances and tours. (Live shows) [2021–present]

Artists Influenced

• Emerging Delta blues musicians - Kingfish’s success and outreach through Red Zero Records aim to inspire and support young blues artists. (Red Zero Records initiatives) [2024–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Outside Of This Town (Kingfish)
2. Believe These Blues (Kingfish)
3. It Ain't Right (Kingfish)
4. Hard Times (Kingfish)
5. Fresh Out (Kingfish)
6. That's What You Do (662)
7. Been Here Before (Kingfish)
8. 662 (662)
9. Listen (Kingfish)
10. Before I'm Old (Kingfish)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia