Five of the best from Howlin Wolf

• Moanin’ in the Moonlight (1959) – This was Howlin’ Wolf’s debut album and is considered a classic. It includes some of his most famous songs, such as “Smokestack Lightnin'” and “Moanin’ at Midnight.”
• Howlin’ Wolf (The Rocking Chair Album) (1962) – Often referred to as “The Rocking Chair Album” due to its cover art, this album features essential tracks like “Spoonful,” “Back Door Man,” and “Wang Dang Doodle.”
• The Real Folk Blues (1966) – This compilation album contains some of his best early recordings and was highly influential during the blues revival of the 1960s. It includes tracks like “Killing Floor” and “Sitting on Top of the World.”
• The London Howlin’ Wolf Sessions (1971) – This album features Howlin’ Wolf collaborating with British rock musicians such as Eric Clapton, Steve Winwood, and members of The Rolling Stones. It bridged the gap between American blues and British rock, bringing Wolf’s music to a wider audience.
• The Howlin’ Wolf Album (1969) – Known for its controversial cover with the tagline “This is Howlin’ Wolf’s new album. He doesn’t like it. He didn’t like his electric guitar at first either,” this album experimented with psychedelic elements. Despite initial mixed reactions, it has since gained a cult following and is appreciated for its bold experimentation.

1. Moanin’ in the Moonlight (1959)

Howlin’ Wolf’s 1959 album “Moanin’ in the Moonlight” is a cornerstone in blues history. This debut album captures the raw power and emotion that defined Howlin’ Wolf’s style. With standout tracks like “Smokestack Lightnin'” and “Moanin’ at Midnight,” the album showcases his gritty vocals and innovative guitar work. “Moanin’ in the Moonlight” brought Howlin’ Wolf’s Mississippi Delta blues roots to a wider audience, solidifying his place in the Chicago blues scene.

The album’s influence on future blues and rock musicians cannot be overstated. Its unique blend of rhythm and raw emotion set a new standard in the genre. Howlin’ Wolf’s commanding presence and musical mastery are evident in every track, making this album a must-listen for any blues enthusiast. For those looking to explore the roots of modern blues, “Moanin’ in the Moonlight” by Howlin’ Wolf is an essential experience, offering an authentic glimpse into the heart of the blues.

2. Howlin’ Wolf (The Rocking Chair Album) (1962)

Howlin’ Wolf’s 1962 album, often referred to as “The Rocking Chair Album,” is a defining moment in blues music history. Featuring iconic tracks like “Spoonful,” “Back Door Man,” and “Wang Dang Doodle,” this album showcases Howlin’ Wolf’s powerful vocals and distinctive guitar style. Released during the peak of the blues revival, it garnered widespread acclaim for its raw energy and emotional depth.

The album, officially titled “Howlin’ Wolf,” captures the essence of Chicago blues with its gritty lyrics and intense instrumentation. It solidified Howlin’ Wolf’s reputation as a blues legend and influenced countless musicians across genres. With its blend of traditional blues and electrifying performances, “The Rocking Chair Album” remains a timeless classic, essential for anyone exploring the roots of blues and rock music. Howlin’ Wolf’s commanding presence and musical innovation shine through on every track, making this album a cornerstone of American music history.

3. The Real Folk Blues (1966)

“The Real Folk Blues” is a pivotal collection that epitomizes the essence of traditional blues music. Featuring timeless tracks like “Killing Floor” and “Sitting on Top of the World,” the album showcases Howlin’ Wolf’s unparalleled vocal intensity and raw guitar prowess. Released during a resurgence of interest in authentic blues, it resonated with audiences craving genuine, soul-stirring music.

“The Real Folk Blues” captures Howlin’ Wolf’s Mississippi Delta roots with its emotive storytelling and powerful instrumentation. Its impact on the blues revival of the 1960s solidified Howlin’ Wolf’s status as a blues icon, influencing generations of musicians across genres. This album remains a cornerstone of American blues, offering a visceral journey into the heart of the genre. For fans of classic blues and those exploring the roots of American music, “The Real Folk Blues” by Howlin’ Wolf is an essential listen that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

4. The London Howlin’ Wolf Sessions (1971)

“The London Howlin’ Wolf Sessions” marked a groundbreaking collaboration between the blues legend and British rock luminaries like Eric Clapton, Steve Winwood, and members of The Rolling Stones. Recorded in London, this album blends Wolf’s trademark gritty vocals and electrifying guitar with the energetic rock influences of the era. Tracks like “Little Red Rooster” and “The Red Rooster” showcase the dynamic fusion of Chicago blues and British rock, creating a unique sound that appealed to a diverse audience.

The album’s crossover appeal helped introduce Howlin’ Wolf to a new generation of listeners while solidifying his reputation as a pioneer of blues music. “The London Howlin’ Wolf Sessions” remains a testament to the enduring influence of Howlin’ Wolf’s music and its ability to transcend cultural and musical boundaries. For fans of blues, rock, and music history, this album is a must-listen, offering a vibrant snapshot of a legendary artist at the peak of his powers.

5. The Howlin’ Wolf Album (1969)

“The Howlin’ Wolf Album,” stands out as a bold exploration of blues and rock fusion. Known for its iconic cover featuring the statement “This is Howlin’ Wolf’s new album. He doesn’t like it. He didn’t like his electric guitar at first either,” the album represents a departure from traditional blues roots. With tracks like “Evil” and “Do the Do,” Howlin’ Wolf embraced psychedelic and experimental elements, blending them with his powerful vocals and masterful guitar playing.

This album challenged conventions and expanded the boundaries of blues music, appealing to a broader audience with its innovative sound. Despite initial mixed reactions, “The Howlin’ Wolf Album” has since gained recognition for its influence on the evolution of blues-rock. It remains essential for fans of blues innovation and those exploring the intersection of traditional and contemporary music styles. Howlin’ Wolf’s artistic courage and musical vision shine through on every track, making this album a significant chapter in his storied career.