Pianist and singer who specialized in blues, jazz, and boogie-woogie. He was a favored accompanist by the musicians of his day.
He worked with Big Bill Broonzy, Sonny Boy Williamson I, Tampa Red, and Merline Johnson on several of their recordings between 1937 and 1942.
He became known for A Little Every Day, No Mail Today, Everybody's Boogie, and many other solo recordings.
His family moved to Chicago when he was two. It would be seven years after this move that he would go blind.
He successfully recorded with Lonnie Johnson during the 1940s.