American blues pianist born Joseph William Perkins on July 7, 1913, in Belzoni, Mississippi; died March 21, 2011. Member of Muddy Waters's band (1969-1980) and the Legendary Blues Band (1980-1991). Distinguished by his deeply traditional Delta-blues piano style and his exceptional longevity — performing and recording into his late 90s.
Released over a dozen solo studio albums starting with Boogie Woogie King (1976). Won the Grammy for Best Traditional Blues Album for Joined at the Hip (2010, with Willie "Big Eyes" Smith) — at age 97, making him the oldest Grammy recipient in any category. Died at age 97 of cardiac arrest.
