What is the best album by Howlin' Wolf?

Howlin' Wolf possessed one of the most commanding and primal voices in blues history, powering legendary Chess Records sessions through the late 1950s and 60s. From essential compilations of his greatest singles to experimental late-career work, his catalog captures a uniquely supernatural blues power.

Moanin' in the Moonlight

1959 debut LP compiling Howlin' Wolf's greatest Chess Records singles, presenting the raw power and supernatural charisma that made him a blues legend.

1/10

Howlin' Wolf

1962 debut true studio album known as the 'Rockin' Chair' album after its cover art, featuring classics like 'Shake for Me' and 'The Red Rooster'.

2/10

The Real Folk Blues

1966 Chess Records compilation drawing on Wolf's finest recordings, one of the key documents of authentic Chicago electric blues.

3/10

More Real Folk Blues

1967 companion volume with more essential tracks, including alternate versions and rarities from his Chess vault that showcase his range.

4/10

The Howlin' Wolf Album

1969 psychedelic blues album that placed Wolf's primal vocals over acid-rock arrangements, a polarizing but historically significant experiment.

5/10

The London Howlin' Wolf Sessions

1971 landmark collaboration with Eric Clapton, Charlie Watts, Bill Wyman and Rolling Stones, celebrating Wolf's influence on British rock.

6/10

Message to the Young

1971 album demonstrating Wolf's ability to adapt to contemporary sounds while retaining his commanding blues authority and raw vocal power.

7/10

Back Door Wolf

1973 final studio album recorded just before his death, an urgent and stripped-back return to his Chicago roots that stands as a powerful farewell.

8/10

Chester Burnett aka Howlin' Wolf

1972 album released under his birth name Chester Burnett, blending soul and blues in a late-career statement that showcased his enduring vitality.

9/10

Change My Way

1975 posthumous compilation of late-period recordings that preserved some of Wolf's final blues statements and deepened his legendary catalogue.

10/10