Biography
Walter 'Wolfman' Washington was born on December 21, 1943, in New Orleans, where he grew up surrounded by music. He began his musical journey by singing in his mother's church choir and later learned to play guitar using a homemade instrument made from a cigar box and rubber bands. His professional career took off in 1962 when he joined Lee Dorsey's band, followed by stints with Irma Thomas and Johnny Adams. Washington's unique blend of blues, funk, and jazz made him a staple in New Orleans' vibrant music scene. He led his own band, the Roadmasters, and was known for his distinctive vocal delivery and guitar playing style. Washington's legacy includes numerous awards and a debut major label album, My Future Is My Past, released in 2018. He passed away on December 22, 2022, at the age of 79, due to tonsil cancer.
Throughout his six-decade career, Washington performed at numerous clubs and festivals, both locally and internationally. His music was characterized by its relaxed authority and syncopated phrasing, often blending elements of jazz and traditional blues. Washington held long-running residencies at clubs like the Maple Leaf and d.b.a., where he recorded live albums with his band. His work with Joe Krown and Russell Batiste Jr. also resulted in notable live recordings.
Washington's impact on the New Orleans music scene extends beyond his performances. He was a quintessential local star, embodying the city's unique musical heritage. His ability to blend different genres and create a distinctive sound has inspired many musicians and solidified his place as one of New Orleans' most beloved musical figures.
Fun Facts
- Washington's nickname 'Wolfman' was given by fellow musician David Lastie due to his unique guitar playing style.
- He started playing guitar with a homemade instrument made from a cigar box and rubber bands.
- Washington's first major gig was with Lee Dorsey at the Apollo Theatre in New York.
- He was a recipient of the Best of the Beat Award for Lifetime Achievement in Music in 2019.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Guitar Slim and Lightnin' Slim - uncles and early influences (None specified) [1950s]
- Local radio station guitarist - inspiration for learning guitar (None specified) [1950s]
Key Collaborators
- Lee Dorsey - guitarist in Dorsey's band (Tours and performances) [1962-1964]
- Irma Thomas - backing musician (Live performances) [1960s]
- Johnny Adams - long-term collaboration (Studio and live performances) [Late 1960s-1980s]
- Joe Krown and Russell Batiste Jr. - collaboration in a trio (Live at the Maple Leaf) [2000s]
Artists Influenced
- Not specified - influence on New Orleans music scene (None specified) [Ongoing]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Out Of The Dark | 1988-01-01 | Album |
| My Future Is My Past | 2018-04-20 | Album |
| Doin' The Funky Thing | 2008-05-20 | Album |
| Ya-Ka-May | 2010-01-20 | Album |
| Blue Moon Risin' | 1997-01-01 | Album |
| Feel So At Home | 2023-11-17 | Album |
| The Wolfman's Songs - [The Dave Cash Collection] | 2011-05-09 | Album |
| Live at the Maple Leaf | 2008-10-12 | Album |
| Get On Up | 2011-02-28 | Album |
| The Great Johnny Adams Blues Album | 2005-01-01 | Album |
| Wolf At The Door | 1991-07-01 | Album |
| On The Prowl | 2000-01-01 | Album |
| There Is Always One More Time | 2000-01-01 | Album |
Top Tracks
- You Can Stay But The Noise Must Go On (Out Of The Dark)
- Landslide (Doin' The Funky Thing)
- Steal Away (My Future Is My Past)
- I Want To Know (Soul Gumbo)
- Even Now (My Future Is My Past)
- She's Everything To Me (My Future Is My Past)
- It's Rainin' In My Life (The Wolfman's Songs - [The Dave Cash Collection])
- Out Of The Dark (Out Of The Dark)
- User Me (Blue Moon Risin')
- Body And Fender Man (Room With A View Of The Blues)
External Links
Heard on WWOZ
Walter Wolfman Washington has been played 50 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.