James Cotton

The Profile

James Cotton (1935–2017) was an American blues harmonica player and singer, nicknamed “Mr. Superharp.” Mentored by Sonny Boy Williamson II, he played with Howlin’ Wolf and spent 11 years in Muddy Waters’ band. A ferocious bandleader in his own right, he recorded extensively, won a Grammy for Deep in the Blues (1997), and remained a towering figure of Chicago and electric blues.

Born 1935; died 2017; American blues harmonica player and singer known as “Mr. Superharp.” Mentored by Sonny Boy Williamson II; worked with Howlin’ Wolf; member of Muddy Waters’ band for 11 years. Grammy winner for Deep in the Blues (1997). Associated with Alligator Records. Guests on Cotton Mouth Man include Joe Bonamassa, Gregg Allman, Keb' Mo', Warren Haynes, Delbert McClinton, and Ruthie Foster.

One glowing review hails James Cotton as a blues harmonica legend and praises Cotton Mouth Man as a 5‑star late‑career triumph with stellar guests. The review highlights his mentors and band history (Sonny Boy Williamson II, Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters) and lauds standout track Wrapped Around My Heart with Ruthie Foster. Publicly, Cotton is an American Grammy‑winning harmonica great known as “Mr. Superharp.”