Mud Morganfield: Carrying On Muddy Waters' Blues Legacy!

18 May, 2025

Can the legacy of a blues legend truly live on through his offspring? Absolutely, and Mud Morganfield, the eldest son of the iconic Muddy Waters, is a resounding testament to that fact. He has carved his own path in the blues world while honoring his father's indelible mark, releasing albums that showcase both his original compositions and heartfelt renditions of his father's classics.

Mud Morganfield, born Larry Williams in Chicago, Illinois, on September 27, 1954, didnt initially embrace the blues. Growing up in the 50s and 60s, he was drawn to soul music. It wasn't until after his father's passing in 1983 that he fully embraced the blues, embarking on a professional career at nearly 30 years old. The timbre and tone of his voice bear an uncanny resemblance to his father's, a buoyant baritone that echoes the blues lineage coursing through his veins. He wasn't always surrounded by his father growing up, as he was primarily raised by his mother, Mildred McGhee, and his uncles. Yet, the musical environment of Chicago, steeped in the blues, undeniably shaped his artistic trajectory. He has become an accomplished blues singer in his own right, garnering critical acclaim and accolades for his work.

Category	Information
Name	Larry "Mud" Morganfield (born Larry Williams)
Birth Date	September 27, 1954
Birth Place	Chicago, Illinois, United States
Occupation	Blues Singer
Father	Muddy Waters
Mother	Mildred McGhee
Musical Style	Blues (Traditional, Chicago Blues)
Awards	Blues Music Award (2015) for "For Pops: A Tribute to Muddy Waters", Blues Blast Music Award (2015)
Record Labels	Delmark Records, Severn Records
Albums	"Son of the Seventh Son", "They Call Me Mud", "For Pops: A Tribute to Muddy Waters", "Portrait"
Associated Acts	In The Mood Blues Band, Heritage Blues Orchestra
Website	Mud Morganfield Official Website

His latest album, "Portrait," released on Delmark Records, is a testament to his dedication to both his own artistry and his father's legacy. The album features fourteen tracks, including two previously unreleased songs. It represents a careful curation and remastering of tracks, including a remix of a dozen songs from his 2012 release, "Son of the Seventh Son," complemented by new material. In 2021, Mud Morganfield solidified his relationship with Delmark Records, signing with the label and releasing a single that served as a prelude to the "Portrait" album.

"Portrait" isn't simply a collection of songs; it's a powerful statement from an artist who has fully embraced his role as a torchbearer for the blues. The album offers a glimpse into the soul of Mud Morganfield, showcasing his raw talent and deep connection to the music that runs through his family. It's an album that invites listeners to explore the nuances of the blues, both old and new, and to appreciate the enduring power of musical heritage.

One cannot discuss Mud Morganfield without acknowledging the profound influence of his father, Muddy Waters. Waters, a seminal figure in the development of Chicago blues, left an undeniable impact on the genre. Mud Morganfield's decision to follow in his father's footsteps was not a simple one. It was a journey of self-discovery, a process of embracing his own musical identity while honoring the legacy of a towering figure. He is not merely imitating his father; instead, he's channeling the spirit of the blues through his own unique voice and perspective.

NPR's Linda Wertheimer once spoke with Mud Morganfield and harmonica virtuoso Kim Wilson about their collaborative album, "For Pops: A Tribute to Muddy Waters." This album, a heartfelt homage to the blues legend, won a Blues Music Award in 2015, solidifying Mud Morganfield's position as a force to be reckoned with in the blues world. The album is a testament to the enduring power of Muddy Waters' music and the deep respect it commands from fellow musicians.

Mud Morganfield's journey is all the more remarkable considering he didn't initially gravitate towards the blues. As a young man, he was captivated by the sounds of soul music, a genre that offered a different kind of emotional expression. However, fate, or perhaps a deeper calling, led him back to the blues. After his father's death, he began to explore the music that had defined his father's life, and he discovered a profound connection to the blues. This connection ignited a passion that would propel him forward, transforming him into the artist he is today.

He has expressed that the blues was an integral part of his life from the very beginning, stating that he felt he was "born with the blues in his blood." This innate connection to the music is evident in his performances, which are imbued with a raw emotion and authenticity that resonates with audiences. He doesn't just sing the blues; he embodies them.

Mud Morganfield's commitment to preserving his father's legacy is evident in his ongoing mission "to try to keep dad" alive through his music. At 70, the same age his father was when he passed away in 1983, this mission takes on an even greater significance. He understands the importance of keeping the blues alive for future generations, ensuring that the music of Muddy Waters continues to inspire and move people.

In addition to "Portrait" and "For Pops: A Tribute to Muddy Waters," Mud Morganfield has released other notable albums, including "They Call Me Mud," released on Severn Records on March 9, 2018. Each album showcases his growth as an artist, his willingness to experiment with different sounds, and his unwavering dedication to the blues. He is not content to simply rehash his father's music; instead, he is constantly striving to create something new and original while remaining true to the spirit of the blues.

While Mud Morganfield's musical journey began later in life, his impact on the blues scene has been significant. He has toured extensively, performing at festivals and venues around the world. He has shared the stage with numerous renowned musicians, further solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the blues community. His live performances are known for their energy and authenticity, captivating audiences with his powerful vocals and commanding stage presence.

Mud Morganfield is more than just the son of a blues legend; he is a bluesman in his own right. He has earned his place in the pantheon of blues artists through his talent, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the music. He is a bridge between the past and the present, carrying the torch of the blues forward while forging his own unique path. He is a testament to the enduring power of musical heritage and the ability of music to connect generations.

He continues to be a vital force in the blues world, ensuring that the music of Muddy Waters and the spirit of the blues live on for years to come. His dedication to his craft, his respect for his father's legacy, and his undeniable talent make him one of the most important blues artists of our time. Through his music, he invites us to connect with the rich history of the blues and to experience the power of this uniquely American art form.

Despite not having any scheduled concert dates in 2024, fans eagerly anticipate future announcements. Platforms like Songkick provide updates on tour plans, enabling dedicated followers to stay informed about upcoming performances and concert information. Over a thousand fans actively track Mud Morganfield on Songkick, demonstrating the anticipation for his future appearances.

Larry "Mud" Morganfield has spoken about his childhood, his musical evolution, and his deep connection to his father's legacy. He offers insights into the evolution of the blues genre and shares details about his most recent album, "Portrait". His journey has not just been about carrying on a legacy but about finding his own voice within the vast landscape of the blues, creating music that both honors his father and reflects his own artistic vision.

Growing up surrounded by many of the finest musicians in the blues undoubtedly influenced Mud Morganfield's musical path. Though he initially pursued other musical interests, the blues eventually called to him, becoming an integral part of his identity and artistic expression. He is one of the most well-regarded and accomplished singers, born on September 27, 1954, in Chicago, Illinois, United States.

Mud Morganfield's journey through the blues is a deeply personal one. It's a story of family, legacy, and the transformative power of music. It's a story that continues to unfold with each new album, each new performance, and each new generation of blues fans who discover the magic of Mud Morganfield and the enduring legacy of Muddy Waters.

Mud Morganfield is a true inheritor of the blues crown. He has earned his place through talent, dedication, and a deep understanding of the music's soul. As he continues his journey, he carries with him the weight of his father's legacy and the hopes of a generation of blues fans who look to him to keep the music alive. His music is not just a tribute; it's a continuation, a vibrant expression of the blues that will resonate for years to come.

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