Biography
Jabo Williams (possibly born in 1895, died 1953 or 1954) was an American boogie-woogie and blues pianist and songwriter, whose life remains largely shrouded in mystery. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Williams emerged as a talented pianist and vocalist, eventually relocating to St. Louis, Missouri, a city known for its vibrant blues scene. His career is documented almost exclusively through the eight tracks he recorded for Paramount Records in Grafton, Wisconsin, in May 1932, which represent his entire known recorded output.[3][1][5]
Williams' piano style was characterized by energetic barrelhouse rhythms, intricate left-hand patterns, and a raw, driving boogie-woogie feel. His recordings, such as 'Pratt City Blues' and 'Jabbo Stomp,' showcase a distinctive approach that blends elements of ragtime and early blues, marking him as a unique voice among his contemporaries. Despite the brevity of his recording career, his work has been celebrated by blues and piano enthusiasts for its originality and technical prowess.[1][6]
Little is known about Williams' life after his Paramount sessions. There are no confirmed photographs, and details about his later years and death remain uncertain. Nevertheless, his recordings have achieved a cult status, influencing later generations of blues and boogie-woogie pianists and securing his legacy as a foundational figure in early American blues piano.[3][7]
Fun Facts
- Jabo Williams recorded only eight tracks in his lifetime, all in a single session for Paramount Records in 1932.
- No confirmed photographs of Williams are known to exist, adding to his enigmatic reputation.
- His track 'Pratt City Blues' is named after a neighborhood in Birmingham, Alabama, possibly referencing his roots.
- Williams' recordings are highly prized by collectors due to their rarity and historical significance.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Unknown - No documented mentors or teachers; influences presumed to be local Birmingham and St. Louis blues pianists.
Key Collaborators
- Unknown session musicians - Possible accompaniment or studio musicians during Paramount recording sessions, but no names are documented. (Paramount recordings (1932)) [1932]
Artists Influenced
- Later boogie-woogie and blues pianists - Williams' recordings are cited as influential by collectors and musicians interested in early blues piano, though specific proteges are undocumented. (General influence on boogie-woogie revivalists) [Post-1930s]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Fat Mama Blues | 2019-04-04 | Album |
| Fat Mama Blues | 2014-10-11 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Polock Blues (Slip & Slide Blues, Vol.2)
- Polock Blues (Alabama Blues Shakers & Makers)
- Pratt City Blues (Picking the Blues - Compiled By John Mayall - Boogie Woogie Pioneers)
- Pratt City Blues (Rough Guide to Barrelhouse Blues)
- Polack Blues
- Fat Mama Blues
- Fat Mama Blues
- Pratt City Blues (The Masters Of The Boogie Woogie Piano 1924-1939)
- Ko Ko Mo Blues - Part 1 (Boogie and Barrelhouse Piano, Vol 1 (1928 - 1930))
- Ko Ko Mo Blues - Part 2 (Boogie and Barrelhouse Piano, Vol 1 (1928 - 1930))
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Jabo Williams has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 11, 2025 | 14:18 | Pratt City Bluesfrom Blues: Juke Box Hits, Vol 4 | Soul Serenadew/ Marc Stone |