Died On This Date (October 20, 2011) Earl Gilliam / Texas Blues Great
themusicsover Earl Gilliam
DOB Unknown – October 20, 2011
Earl Gilliam was a pianist who, for over 60 years was a key figure of the Houston blues scene. A gifted self-taught pianist, it has been said that Gilliam could listen to a song two or three times and recreate it virtually note by note. Over the years, Gilliam played with such luminaries as Albert King, Albert Collins, and Lightnin’ Hopkins to name a few. He fronted his own band as well, entertaining Houston crowds throughout the ’90s and 2000s, but only released one album, Texas Doghouse Blues, in 2005. He also hosted the “Dog House,” a bi-weekly jam in his home for many years. Earl Gilliam died of lung disease on October 20, 2011. He was 81.
Thanks to Albert Storo for the assist.
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