Albert Collins (1932–1993) was a Texas blues guitarist and singer, nicknamed “The Iceman” and “Master of the Telecaster.”
He was known for his sharp, icy tone, aggressive fingerstyle playing, unusual minor tunings, and high-energy live shows (often roaming into the crowd with a long guitar cable).
- Born in Leona, Texas; raised in Houston
- Influenced by cousin Lightnin’ Hopkins and T-Bone Walker
- Breakthrough instrumentals in the early ’60s included “Frosty”
- Career peaked after signing with Alligator Records in 1978
“Honey Hush” (also called “Honey, Hush! (Talking Woman Blues)”) opens Collins’ classic 1978 album Ice Pickin’.
It’s a mid-tempo blues about a woman who talks too much and drives her man crazy. Collins delivers it with his signature stinging guitar and straightforward, frustrated vocals. The track helped reintroduce him to a wider blues audience and remains one of his better-known vocal numbers.