Biography
Born Walter Dixon on 28 January 1906 in Somerville, Texas, USA, he died on 7 September 1980 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Raised doing agricultural labor, Gray departed home at a young age, wandering extensively before settling farther north. A violent altercation in 1930 cost him his vision along with two fingers from his left hand, prompting him to earn his keep through music. For years he performed blues in a basic bottleneck guitar approach on Chicago sidewalks, gaining recognition through steady sets at the Maxwell Street outdoor market and additional spots throughout the city. Younger blues enthusiasts took notice, leading to appearances at concerts and festivals during the 1960s and 1970s, as well as roles in a pair of short films. Although his selection of material stayed narrow, he cut several records, among them singles he peddled directly on the streets.