Biography
George Butler, known professionally as George "Wild Child" Butler, was an influential American blues harmonica player, guitarist, and vocalist, born on October 1, 1936, in Autaugaville, Alabama[4][5][6]. Butler grew up immersed in the rural blues traditions of the Deep South, playing at local 'jook' joints and learning harmonica from older musicians in his community[3]. His mother nicknamed him 'Wild Child' for his energetic and mischievous nature, a moniker that stuck throughout his career[5].
In the late 1950s, Butler began performing with regional bands, gradually honing his distinctive style that combined raw Delta blues with urban Chicago influences[6]. He made his first recording in 1964, releasing the single "Aching All Over" on the Shaw label, which marked his entry into the professional blues scene[3]. Butler relocated to Chicago, where he recorded extensively and collaborated with many notable blues musicians, although he often found greater success touring outside the city[3]. His harmonica playing was characterized by expressive phrasing and a gritty, soulful tone, earning him recognition among blues aficionados.
Butler's legacy lies in his authentic approach to blues music, bridging Southern juke joint traditions and the electric Chicago sound. He continued to record and perform until his death on March 1, 2005, leaving behind a catalog of recordings that capture the spirit of classic American blues[4].
Fun Facts
- George Butler's nickname 'Wild Child' was given to him by his mother due to his playful and troublesome nature[5].
- He built a homemade harmonica substitute from a Prince Albert tobacco can and rocks when his first harp wore out[3].
- Butler wrote his first blues song at age thirteen, inspired by life on Jack Wilson's farm[3].
- He found greater financial success touring outside Chicago, despite recording many of his albums in the city[3].
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Local blues musicians in Autaugaville - Early inspiration and informal teachers; Butler learned harmonica and blues performance by watching and playing with older musicians at local suppers and jook joints. (N/A (formative influence)) [1940s-1950s]
Key Collaborators
- Deal and Ace - Played together in local bands during Butler's formative years in Alabama. (Live performances at jook joints) [1950s]
- Various Chicago blues musicians - Recorded and performed with many artists during his time in Chicago, though rarely featured on their sessions. (Chicago recording sessions) [1960s-1970s]
Artists Influenced
- Regional blues musicians - Butler's energetic style and authentic Southern blues influenced younger players in Alabama and Chicago. (Live performances and local recordings) [1960s-2000s]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Britten: Peter Grimes, Op. 33 | 2020-09-04 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Christmas Madrigal (Live) (A Festival for Christmas)
- Put It All In There (American Blues Vol. 1)
- Peter Grimes, Op. 33, Act III Scene 1: Come Along, Doctor! (Britten: Peter Grimes, Op. 33)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
george butler has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 3, 2025 | 19:24 | open up baby | Blues and R&Bw/ Gentilly Jr. |