Amos Milburn – “Down The Road Apiece” from the album “Rockin’ And Drinkin’ – Greatest Hits And More”

Born Joseph Amos Milburn on 1 April 1927 in Houston, Texas. He was one of 12 children and by the age of five was playing tunes on the piano. He initially had a few piano lessons, but, with such a large family to support, his father couldn’t afford any more so he was mostly self-taught.

Aged 15 he lied about his age to join the Navy and, stationed in the Pacific, saw front-line action.

Back in Houston in 1945, after he had been discharged aged 18, his life had changed dramatically. His father had died and he was now the family’s main breadwinner. He formed a small combo and, with the help of Lola Ann Cullum, a keen blues enthusiast, he signed to Aladdin Records. His first session for the label was on 12 September 1946 and “Down The Road Apiece” is from this session.
He died on 3 January 1980.