Blues Vocalist. He was inspired to sing blues by watching Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf performances in Chicago clubs where he got his first professional gig playing with Byther Smith. He established a reputation in the club scene in the early 1960s as Good Rockin' Ernie. He took his blues styling talent to New York City where he was given the nickname "king" for his wild dancing antics. His first recorded single, "I Feel Alright," enjoyed mild success prior to his returning to Chicago where he recorded several more singles. It was only after he signed with music promoter Randy Chortkoff and moved to Los Angeles that he enjoyed a international following offering his debut album King of Hearts. Guitarist Jimmy Rip accompanies him on the track "Better Days," a song co-written by Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones. 'Blues Got Soul' would be his last recording before he was killed in an automobile accident.
Blues Vocalist. He was inspired to sing blues by watching Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf performances in Chicago clubs where he got his first professional gig playing with Byther Smith. He established a reputation in the club scene in the early 1960s as Good Rockin' Ernie. He took his blues styling talent to New York City where he was given the nickname "king" for his wild dancing antics. His first recorded single, "I Feel Alright," enjoyed mild success prior to his returning to Chicago where he recorded several more singles. It was only after he signed with music promoter Randy Chortkoff and moved to Los Angeles that he enjoyed a international following offering his debut album King of Hearts. Guitarist Jimmy Rip accompanies him on the track "Better Days," a song co-written by Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones. 'Blues Got Soul' would be his last recording before he was killed in an automobile accident.
Bio by: Elizabeth Reed
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