Sonny Terry

Sonny Terry (1911-1986) was an American blues musician and harmonica player. He was born Saunders Terrell in Greensboro, North Carolina. Terry began performing in the 1930s, playing a distinctive style of harmonica blues that blended a variety of influences. His music blended traditional blues, rural country, and African-American work songs, as well as his own unique innovations.

Some of his most notable albums include Whoopin' the Blues (1959), Blues in My Heart (1962), and Scrappin' (1966). He also collaborated with Brownie McGhee on several albums, including Brownie McGhee & Sonny Terry (1961) and Brownie & Sonny (1970).

Some of his most well-known songs include "Whoopin' the Blues," "Hootin' the Blues," and "Mellow Chick Swing." He also wrote and performed the harmonica riff for Canned Heat's hit "Going Up the Country."

An interesting fact about Sonny Terry is that he once ran for mayor of his hometown of Greensboro, North Carolina, in 1977. Although he lost the election, his campaign was successful in bringing attention to the issues of poverty and civil rights.