#477 Howlin’ Wolf, 'Moanin' in the Moonlight' (1959)

Previously #154

Dirty stankin’ blues. Another classic from the stable of Chess Records. ‘Moanin’ in the Moonlight’ is a compilation of singles that had been previously released between 1951 and 1959 by Howlin’ Wolf. These songs pre-date rock ‘n roll. Before Chuck Berry, before Little Richard, there was Howlin’ Wolf. His music would go on to influence so many future musicians, and continues to this day. Look no further than the opening track, ‘Moanin’ At Midnight,’ it sounds like this was the blueprint for Jack White’s version of ‘I’m Shakin’’.

I do love a good old Chicago Blues record. I listened to this one for the first time during the last challenge and it’s been a firm favourite since. Of course, it has Willie Dixon’s fingerprints all over it, as is the case with most Chess Records releases. Favourite track has got to be ‘Smokestack Lightnin’’. Another one to enjoy with a whiskey in a dim room.

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