About Big Chief Ellis
Lived 1914 – 1977 (aged 63). Big Chief Ellis was an American pianist.
Wilbert Thirkield "Big Chief" Ellis (November 10, 1914 – December 20, 1977) and was an autodidact at piano. He played at local parties and dances in the late 1920s before leaving Alabama, traveling the United States and working odd jobs.
In 1972, Ellis moved to Washington, D.C., where he operated a liquor store. Towards the end of his life, Ellis began recording for Trix Records,
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Important facts
Related people
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Contemporaries
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Frequently asked questions
Who was Big Chief Ellis?
American blues pianist and singer (1914–1977)
When was Big Chief Ellis born?
Big Chief Ellis was born on 10 November 1914 in Birmingham.
When did Big Chief Ellis die?
Big Chief Ellis died on 20 December 1977 in Birmingham.
What was Big Chief Ellis's occupation?
Big Chief Ellis was a pianist.
What nationality was Big Chief Ellis?
Big Chief Ellis was American.
Sources & further reading
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Big Chief Ellis. https://biography.guide/big-chief-ellis/
MLA: "Big Chief Ellis." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/big-chief-ellis/.
Chicago: "Big Chief Ellis." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/big-chief-ellis/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-20 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
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