Big Boy Henry: "My Baby's Courtin' On Me"

Bluesman Richard "Big Boy" Henry is remembered by friends and fans throughout the Carolinas, U.S., and Europe for his fine old-time down-home blues and his gracious spirit. He was one of the rare breed of bluesmen who could spontaneously compose and perform coherent, meaningful blues lyrics on the spot. There isn't a lot of video of Big Boy around, and thanks go out to Gaile Welker for providing this one of Big Boy singing one of his compositions, "My Baby's Courtin' On Me." Big Boy Henry was born in the coastal town of Beaufort, NC on May 26, 1921. He passed away on December 6, 2004 at age 83. Big Boy first heard the blues when he was 12, and while a young man he began singing for blues player Fred Miller, who taught him guitar. Big Boy went on to develop his own unique style, and during the 1940s he frequently traveled to New York City to jam and record with fellow bluesmen. When at home he often performed on a local radio rhythm and blues show called "Jive Time." Big Boy left the blues for 30 years, earning his living in commercial fishing and doing odd jobs, but he returned to music during the 1980s and was soon recording again and performing in nationally recognized folk and blues festivals.

Added 25 Mar 2026