Little Beaver, born Willie Hale on August 15, 1945, in Forrest City, Arkansas, is an influential American soul, funk, and R&B guitarist, singer, and songwriter whose career blossomed in the 1970s. Moving to Florida at a young age, he earned the nickname "Little Beaver" for his prominent front teeth and was eventually recognized for his distinctive, smooth guitar playing style. His contributions to the Miami soul scene were significant, playing as a session musician for TK Records and collaborating with artists such as Betty Wright, Clarence Reid, and Gwen McCrae.

His solo career took off with the release of hits like "Party Down," a track that not only showcased his silky guitar licks but also resonated with a wide audience, cementing his place in the annals of soul music. With albums like "Party Down," "Joey," and "When Was the Last Time," Little Beaver established a unique sound that combined soulful vocals with funk-infused guitar rhythms. "Love & Affection (From the House of Correction)" further emphasized his knack for creating deeply emotional and compelling music, drawing listeners into his world. Despite facing challenges in his career, Little Beaver's music continues to be celebrated for its innovation, emotion, and technical prowess, securing his legacy as a pioneering artist in the soul and R&B genres.

Genres

Classic Soul

Traditional Funk

Traditional Soul

Related Artists

Bobby Womack

Marvin Gaye

Al Green

Curtis Mayfield

Hozier

Betty Wright

Earth, Wind & Fire

John Legend

Bill Withers

Leon Bridges

Norah Jones

James Bay

Latest Release

Love & Affection (From the House of Correction)

Little Beaver

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released October 21, 2022