Big Joe Williams

About

Delta blues musician known as much for his nine-string guitar playing as for his notoriously cankerous personality.

Before Fame

In the days before blues musicians could make a living from selling records, he traveled around the United States playing alleys, bars, stores, and any place else that would have him.

Trivia

His instrument of choice was a modified nine-string guitar, with three extra strings added so no others could play it.

Family Life

He was born in Crawford, Mississippi.

Associated With

Robert Johnson was another prominent Delta Blues guitarist and a contemporary of Big Joe's.