Johnny Temple
Johnny Temple, born on October 18, 1906, in Canton, Mississippi, was a prominent American blues musician known for his contributions to the Chicago blues scene during the 1930s and 1940s. As a child, Temple learned to play guitar and mandolin, performing at house parties in his teenage years. He developed a friendship with fellow blues musician Skip James while growing up around Jackson, Mississippi.
In the early 1930s, Temple relocated to Chicago, where he began collaborating with Joe McCoy and performing in local clubs. He started recording in 1935, with notable tracks like "The Evil Devil Blues" and "Lead Pencil Blues." His most successful song, "Louise Louise Blues," released by Decca Records in 1936, became a significant hit. The Harlem Hamfats, a jazz band from Chicago, often accompanied him and other singers during recordings.
Throughout the 1940s, Temple continued to record with various labels, thanks to his association with record producer Mayo Williams. After World War II, he played a crucial role in welcoming Southern blues musicians to Chicago. Although he ceased recording new music, Temple remained active in live performances, often playing alongside artists like Big Walter Horton and Billy Boy Arnold.
In the mid-1950s, Temple returned to Mississippi, where he continued performing in local clubs and juke joints around Jackson. Later in life, he transitioned from music to become a minister. Johnny Temple passed away from cancer on November 22, 1968, in Jackson, Mississippi, at the age of 62. His legacy endures through his recordings and contributions to the blues genre.