Bennie Smith
Guitarist
Known as the Dean of Blues in St. Louis, he was an electric guitarist who worked as a session musician, as well as a soloist.
He worked as a session musician for many years before making a name for himself.
September 2nd became known as "Bennie Smith Day" in his hometown of St. Louis, Missouri.
He was given his first guitar by his older brother Ivory.
He recorded several songs in collaboration with rock pioneer Ike Turner.