Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown

Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown was an American blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his distinctive guitar style and powerful singing voice.

Blues Singer

April 18, 1924

Aries

September 10, 2005

81

Vinton, Louisiana

Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown (April 18, 1924 – September 10, 2005) was an influential American blues musician known for his contributions to fiddle and blues fiddle music.

Born in Vinton, Louisiana, Brown was exposed to various musical genres from a young age. He began playing the guitar and developed a unique style that blended blues, jazz, and country music. Brown’s professional career took off in the 1940s when he joined T-Bone Walker’s band, gaining recognition for his exceptional guitar skills and soulful vocals.

Throughout his career, Brown collaborated with renowned musicians such as B.B. King, Dizzy Gillespie, and Roy Milton. His talent and contributions to the blues genre earned him numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album in 1982 and induction into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1999. Brown also received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Endowment for the Arts in 2005.

In addition to the Grammy Award and induction into the Blues Hall of Fame, Brown received several prestigious awards, including the W.C. Handy Award for Blues Instrumentalist of the Year in 1983 and the Living Blues Award for Best Blues Album of the Year in 1997.

Brown was known for his humble and down-to-earth personality, highly respected by his peers and fans. He passed away in 2005, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to influence blues musicians worldwide. His unique blend of blues, jazz, and country music, combined with his soulful vocals and exceptional guitar playing, solidified his status as one of the greatest blues musicians of all time.