Let Your Sidemen Shine: A Leadership Lesson from Muddy Waters

I once had the chance to spend time and music with Bob Margolin (in the image below), Muddy Waters’ guitarist back in the ‘70s. He told me stories of life on the road. Stories that made me realise Muddy wasn’t just a blues legend. He was a master at developing talent.

While other bandleaders hogged the spotlight, Muddy stepped back. He let his sidemen shine, often turning them into stars. He once said, “If you’ve got a star in the band, you’ve got to let him shine.”

That takes real confidence. Not every leader has it.

His band produced giants: Buddy Guy, Little Walter, James Cotton, Otis Spann… the list goes on. While Howlin’ Wolf was known for his towering presence and controlling style, Muddy built his legacy by lifting others up.

Business leaders, take note: True influence isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room. It's about recognising talent and giving it the space to grow.