Guitar Man: Hubert Sumlin

Hubert Sumlin and Bobby Ingano at the 2003 Cityfolk Festival.
Photo by Andy Snow

One of the best music stories over the past couple of decades was seeing guitarist Hubert Sumlin emerge from the shadows of blues history to claim his own place at the table. He was the longtime backbone for the sound of the inimitable Chester Burnett aka Howlin' Wolf and when you hear Wolf's "Killing Floor", it's as much Sumlin's ringing guitar lines that linger in your head as Burnett's ferocious wail. His untutored style was an important influence for many British guitarists who emerged in the 60s such as Eric Clapton and Keith Richards.

At the 2003 Cityfolk Festival, Sumlin, who passed Sunday at age 80, joined forces with Dayton blues guitarist Noah Wotherspoon for two fiery sets on the Main Stage. By this time a swell of recognition for Sumlin's contributions to American music was already in full swing, particularly among his fellow guitarists. Hawaiian lap steel master Bobby Ingano, a fixture at many Cityfolk Festivals, enjoyed encountering Sumlin on site and having the chance to talk with one of his heroes.

Far too often neglected musicians miss their well-deserved day in the sun. Hubert Sumlin was luckier than many of his contemporaries. We were the lucky ones for getting a chance to see and hear him live.

Learn more about his career and influences in the obituary for Hubert Sumlin from the New York Times.