Big John 'T-Bone' Little

Details

Inductee: Big John 'T-Bone' Little

Year inducted: 2014

About:

Big John ‘T-Bone’ Little was born in Niagara Falls on November 19, 1929. At the age of six he started entertaining members of the BME Church by playing drums. Big John’s love of music began as a young boy tuning his father’s guitar. His father and uncle taught him everything they knew and he couldn't learn it fast enough. Gifted with the ability to play by ear, Little has been playing music and entertaining audiences for over 60 years.

In the fifties Big John formed a band called the Hot Toddies, and wrote a hit song called “Rockin’ Crickets” which led to a North American tour. His genres include country, blues, jazz, rock and roll, easy listening, 50’s, 60’s, and more. T-Bone is a true performer as his love of music and his passion for performing are infectious. He is a crowd pleaser wherever he performs, his guitar playing, singing and leadership are an inspiration to his fellow band members.

Over the years he has played and toured with many musicians, including Oscar Peterson, Oliver Jones, The Platters, Shotgun Kelly, Bo Diddly, Dave Bobby Cortez, Little Anthony and the Imperials, Bobby Riddell, the Champs, Conway Twitty and many more. Big John has learned much about music by listening, watching and talking to other musicians. To this day, he is still learning, and he loves to pass on his knowledge to other musicians. BB King was an inspiration to Little for many years.

Big John “T-BONE” Little still plays around Niagara to the joy of many fans that love his music. His audience can leave a performance knowing they have made a friend as he will try to shake hands and chat with everyone. He is a true entertainer!