Otis Spann

About

Influential Chicago Blues pianist who toured extensively with Muddy Waters for the better part of the 1950s and 1960s.

Before Fame

He began playing piano at the age of eight, and by 14, he was playing in bands around Jackson, Mississippi.

Trivia

He collaborated with Muddy Waters on Muddy Waters & Otis Spann-Collaboration in 1958 and Muddy Waters-At Newport in 1960.

Family Life

His father was a pianist known as Friday Ford. His mother, Josephine Erby, had collaborated with Memphis Minnie and Bessie Smith as a guitarist. His stepfather, Frank Houston Spann, not only played music, but also preached.

Associated With

He played with many famous musicians, including Buddy Guy, Fleetwood Mac, and Eric Clapton.