Earl King, born Earl Silas Johnson IV on February 7, 1934, in New Orleans, Louisiana, was a blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter whose work shaped the city’s R&B sound. Raised in the Irish Channel neighborhood, King grew up in a musical family; his father was a pianist, and his mother sang gospel. At age 12, he began singing in church, where his powerful voice stood out. He taught himself guitar as a teenager, inspired by blues legends like T-Bone Walker and local hero Guitar Slim, whose flamboyant style influenced King’s own.
King’s entry into music came through New Orleans’ club scene. At 15, he started sneaking into venues like the Dew Drop Inn, performing as “Earl Johnson” to avoid detection. His break came in 1953 when talent scout Johnny Vincent signed him to Specialty Records. His first recording, “Have You Gone Crazy,” showcased his soulful voice and sharp guitar work. In 1955, he joined Ace Records, where he wrote and recorded “Those Lonely, Lonely Nights,” a regional hit that established him as a rising star.
King’s career flourished in the 1960s as a songwriter and performer. His songs, like “Come On” (covered by Jimi Hendrix) and “Trick Bag,” became R&B standards. Working with producer Allen Toussaint, he recorded for Imperial Records, blending blues with New Orleans’ upbeat rhythms. Despite never achieving mainstream fame, King was a respected figure in the music community, performing at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and collaborating with artists like Dr. John. Health issues slowed him later in life, but he continued performing until his death on April 17, 2003.
