Champion Jack Dupree

The Profile

Champion Jack Dupree (born William Thomas Dupree) was an American New Orleans blues and boogie-woogie pianist and singer. A former boxer nicknamed “Champion,” he began recording in 1940 and released his acclaimed debut LP, Blues from the Gutter, in 1958, remaining active until 1992.

Birth name: William Thomas Dupree; nickname from his boxing career; first recordings in 1940; renowned for New Orleans barrelhouse piano and soulful vocals; debut album Blues from the Gutter released in 1958.

One review hails Blues from the Gutter (1958) as Dupree’s blazing debut, praising his intimate vocals, fiery boogie-woogie piano, and the tight New Orleans–styled ensemble. The lineup features Larry Dale (guitar), Pete Brown (alto sax), Wendell Marshall (bass), and Willie Jones (drums). The record’s tension never dips, and its direct lyrics on drugs and illness stand out for the era.