Junior Wells, born Amos Wells Blakemore Jr. on December 9, 1934, in Memphis, Tennessee, was a prominent American blues singer and harmonica player. Raised in West Memphis, Arkansas, Wells was introduced to the harmonica by his cousin Junior Parker and Sonny Boy Williamson II, mastering the instrument by age seven. He moved to Chicago in 1946 with his mother, where he immersed himself in the local blues scene, performing with musicians like Tampa Red and Johnnie Jones.

Wells's career began in earnest in the early 1950s, when he replaced Little Walter as the harmonica player in Muddy Waters's band. He made his first recordings as a bandleader in 1953 for States Records, producing hits like "Eagle Rock" and "Cut That Out." His 1960 single "Little by Little" reached number 23 on the Billboard R&B chart, marking his entry into the national spotlight.

In 1965, Wells released "Hoodoo Man Blues," a landmark album featuring guitarist Buddy Guy, which became one of the classic blues albums of the 1960s. Throughout his career, Wells collaborated with notable musicians such as Muddy Waters, Earl Hooker, and Buddy Guy, and he toured with the Rolling Stones, bringing Chicago blues to international audiences.

Wells was known for his dynamic performances and his ability to blend blues with rhythm and blues. His repertoire included songs influenced by blues legends like Junior Parker and Sonny Boy Williamson. In 1996, his album "Come On in This House" won a W.C. Handy Blues Award, and his 1997 album "Live at Buddy Guy’s Legends" was nominated for a Grammy Award.

Junior Wells passed away on January 15, 1998, in Chicago, Illinois, leaving behind a legacy as one of the key figures in the development of electric Chicago blues.