Theo Huff, a Chicago native, is an international soul singer, songwriter, and actor. His musical journey seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary Blues, Southern Soul, and R&B, characterized by unforced phrasing and sassy churchiness. Theo’s artistic roots trace back to his Mississippi-born mother and grandmother, as well as his Alabama-born father.
At the tender age of fourteen, Theo’s music teacher, Mr. Jimmy Tillman, a professional drummer, recognized his talent and took him under his wing. Theo began winning local talent shows and performing at open mic nights. His stage presence, a captivating mix of sexy sensitivity, confident flamboyance, and a commanding hold over the audience, has been enchanting listeners since he was eighteen.
Theo’s professional career took off in 2008 when he participated in the musical production “That Sensuous Seductive Seventies” at the Black Ensemble Theatre, working alongside actress/singer Jackie Taylor. His role earned him nominations for Best Featured Actor in a Play or Musical and Promising Actor. In 2018, Theo returned to the theatrical stage in another Jackie Taylor production, “Rick Stone – The Blues Man,” receiving acclaim and another nomination for Best Featured Actor.
Throughout his journey, Theo has shared the stage with legendary artists such as Koko Taylor, Otis Clay, Marshall Thompson of the Chi-Lites, Bobby Rush, the late great Denise LaSalle, and many more. He also collaborated with Benny Latimore and the late great Mel Waiters, who wrote and produced songs for Theo, including hits like “It’s a Good Thing I Met You” and “Soul Swing.”
Theo’s European debut came in 2014 when he performed at the prestigious Porretta Soul Festival in Porretta, Italy. He returned in 2015 and 2016, leaving an indelible mark on international audiences. Critics have praised his contemporary soul-blues (Southern Soul) style, recognizing his immense talent and unique contribution to the genre.
In 2014, Theo received the Blues Critic Award for Best New Artist and was nominated in 2016 for the National Southern Soul Foundation’s Best Male Artist. Also soon to be one of the youngest Blues Hall of Famer of the year of 2024. His desire to inspire the younger generation and keep soul-blues music alive continues to drive him forward. As Tom Bowser of The Chicago Recordings aptly put it, “Theo is good at connecting with his audience, making everyone feel welcome. He appeals not only to new fans but also to the elderly long-standing fans.”
The Theo Huff Xperience is unlike any other—a natural-born singer whose soulful voice resonates with authenticity and passion. A Theo Huff Xperience brings value to old school music. With an authentic voice of sounding like the great pioneers, the legends, the pillars before us that gives the new generation creativity to blend the old school with the new school giving it an original sound that all and ages, cultures, and genre of music can relate to.
