A comprehensive look at one of the greatest and most popular bluesmen of all time. His best-known songs have become an integral part of the standard blues repertoire. He pioneered a musical style that proved to be enormously successful and influential, both with middle-aged blacks and young white audiences during the 50's and 60's. From the Hell Hole of the Delta, where he was born and raised, to Death Valley, a part of South Chicago where he worked the iron mills, his growth as a person and professional musician is chronicled. His success at Vee-Jay records, where he outsold contemporaries such as Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Elmore James, and Little Walter, and the demise of this legendary label are examined. Finally, the sad tale of his deteriorating physical and mental health, and his tragic comeback bid, are recounted by those who knew him best and were with him until the end.