Mud Morganfield

Mud Morganfield

Mud Morganfield is an American blues singer and the first-born son of Muddy Waters, born in 1954 and also known as Muddy Waters Jr. He is the son of Waters’ mother’s maiden name, and he has also been known as Larry Williams. He uses the name Mud Morganfield and says, “Just call me MUD!”

Early life and musical background

He is raised by his mother and grows up hearing the nicknames “Muddy”, “Mud Jr.” and “Little Mud”. Before focusing on blues, he works as a truck driver and sings in his spare time with several soul groups. Although he has his father’s appearance and a baritone voice in the style of Muddy Waters, he does not fully embrace the blues until later in life, particularly after his father’s funeral in 1983, where he meets his half-brother Bill Morganfield for the first time.

Career

Morganfield develops his music in the clubs on Chicago’s South Side and keeps a low profile for some time while building an audience. Childhood friends, including Eddie Taylor Jr., support him on stage. In July 2007 he appears at the Muddy Waters Memorial Festival in Westmont, Illinois with Big Bill Morganfield, then performs his own set at the Chicago Blues Festival. He releases his debut record in 2008.

Performances and touring

His first UK shows in 2007 are reported as sell-out successes. He later tours across Europe, North America and South America.