Biography
Golden "Big" Wheeler spent four decades circulating through Chicago blues venues yet held off until 1993 before issuing his first Delmark album. His robust harmonica approach harks back to the 1950s and the model set by his idol, Little Walter.
Wheeler first encountered the instrument while working as a cab driver, introduced to it by one of his steady passengers, Buster Brown. Brown's own brush with fame via the hit "Fannie Mae" lay years ahead, and Wheeler's arrival on record came still later. He departed Georgia in 1941 and eventually made his home in Chicago, where he crossed paths with Little Walter; the two formed a close bond, with Walter serving as an informal guide. Wheeler started leading his own group in 1956, though he never maintained steady performing work and instead earned his living as a mechanic.
Delmark finally brought out the harpist's opening effort, Big Wheeler's Bone Orchard, in 1993, with the Ice Cream Men supplying support. Jump In appeared four years afterward. His sibling, guitarist James Wheeler, has long been embedded in the Windy City blues world and now anchors Mississippi Heat following an extended run accompanying Otis Rush.
Wheeler first encountered the instrument while working as a cab driver, introduced to it by one of his steady passengers, Buster Brown. Brown's own brush with fame via the hit "Fannie Mae" lay years ahead, and Wheeler's arrival on record came still later. He departed Georgia in 1941 and eventually made his home in Chicago, where he crossed paths with Little Walter; the two formed a close bond, with Walter serving as an informal guide. Wheeler started leading his own group in 1956, though he never maintained steady performing work and instead earned his living as a mechanic.
Delmark finally brought out the harpist's opening effort, Big Wheeler's Bone Orchard, in 1993, with the Ice Cream Men supplying support. Jump In appeared four years afterward. His sibling, guitarist James Wheeler, has long been embedded in the Windy City blues world and now anchors Mississippi Heat following an extended run accompanying Otis Rush.
Albums
