Chuck Berry was an influence, along with Jay McShann's "Confessin' The Blues," a cover version of which appeared on the duo's debut album.
He joined Tomcat Courtney's backing band when he was 13, initially playing the harmonica and later bass and then rhythm guitar.
He later joined Detroit Junior's backing ensemble before meeting Patrick Rynn and persuading him to play bass.
It was not until two years later after hearing Elmore James' version of "Dust My Broom" that he began to pursue blues.
[3] Gonna Boogie Anyway (2010) saw guest appearances by the pianists David Maxwell and Henry Gray; harmonica players Bob Corritore and Rob Stone, guitarist Jeff Stone, and on two tracks, drummer Sam Lay.
[1][8] Barrelhouse Stomp, which featured pianists Henry Gray, Arron Moore, and David Maxwell, was recorded between 2009 and 2011.
[11] On Trouble Don't Last (2015) James and Rynn were joined by Rob Stone and Aki Kumar on harmonica, and June Core on drums.