Hound Dog Taylor, American singer-songwriter and guitarist (d. 1975)

The raw, unpolished energy of Chicago blues found one of its most authentic and beloved exponents in Theodore Roosevelt "Hound Dog" Taylor, who graced the world from April 12, 1915, to December 17, 1975. More than just a guitarist and singer, Taylor was a force of nature, embodying the gritty, joyous spirit of the urban blues scene with his electrifying slide guitar and infectious boogie.

From Delta Roots to Chicago's Electric Blues

Born in Natchez, Mississippi, a region deeply steeped in the fertile traditions of the Delta blues, Taylor's musical journey began in the South. Like many African American musicians of his generation, he eventually made the pivotal migration north, arriving in Chicago in 1942. The Windy City was a beacon for blues artists, offering new opportunities and a vibrant club scene where the acoustic country blues began its transformation into the amplified, urban Chicago blues sound.

Taylor quickly became a fixture in the South Side's bustling juke joints and house parties, honing his craft over decades. His nickname, "Hound Dog," is said to have been bestowed upon him due to his energetic and relentless stage presence, reminiscent of a persistent hound.

A Signature Sound: Raw, Unfiltered, and Six-Fingered

What truly set Hound Dog Taylor apart was his utterly distinctive approach to the electric slide guitar. Eschewing expensive instruments, he famously played cheap Japanese guitars, often a red Kawai or similar, through a Sears Roebuck amplifier, embracing the distorted, unrefined sound that became his signature. This choice of gear, coupled with his raw, unpolished technique, produced a sound that was both powerful and undeniably authentic.

Adding another layer of uniqueness to his playing was a rare physical trait: polydactyly. Taylor had six fingers on each hand. Far from being a hindrance, he skillfully incorporated his extra digits into his playing style, allowing him to apply greater pressure on the slide and strings, contributing to his powerful, unmistakable tone and a unique ability to fret chords.

The Houserockers and Late-Career Acclaim

For years, Hound Dog Taylor remained a beloved local hero on Chicago's South Side. It wasn't until 1971, at the age of 56, that he gained widespread recognition, thanks to Bruce Iglauer, who founded Alligator Records specifically to record Taylor. His debut album, "Hound Dog Taylor and the Houserockers," captured his live energy with astonishing fidelity. The Houserockers, featuring the blistering second guitar of Brewer Phillips and the steady, driving drums of Ted Harvey, provided the perfect, unyielding rhythmic foundation for Taylor's propulsive boogie.

His music was an uninhibited celebration, often built around a relentless 1-4-5 chord progression and an infectious shuffle beat that compelled listeners to move. Songs like "Give Me Back My Wig," "She's Gone," and "Boogie Chillen'" became staples, showcasing his vibrant vocals and incendiary guitar work. Despite a relatively short recording career, Hound Dog Taylor left an indelible mark, influencing countless blues and rock musicians with his honest, no-frills approach and his unwavering commitment to the blues' most primal instincts. He exemplified the raw, unpolished heart of Chicago blues until his passing in 1975, leaving behind a legacy of pure, unadulterated musical joy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hound Dog Taylor

What was Hound Dog Taylor's real name?

His full given name was Theodore Roosevelt Taylor.

Where was Hound Dog Taylor born?

He was born in Natchez, Mississippi, a region rich in Delta blues tradition.

When did he move to Chicago?

He made the significant move to Chicago in 1942, where he became a key figure in the electric blues scene.

What made his guitar playing unique?

His unique style was characterized by his use of slide guitar, cheap instruments that contributed to his distinctive, distorted sound, and remarkably, having six fingers on each hand (polydactyly), which he used to his advantage in his technique.

What was the name of his band?

His long-standing and well-known band was called The Houserockers, featuring Brewer Phillips on second guitar and Ted Harvey on drums.

What record label was instrumental in his later career?

He achieved significant recognition and recorded his seminal albums with Alligator Records, which was founded by Bruce Iglauer specifically to record Taylor.

What style of blues did he primarily play?

Hound Dog Taylor was a quintessential Chicago blues musician, known for his raw, boogie-woogie style, often featuring a driving shuffle beat and a powerful slide guitar.