Which artist had a brief but influential Specialty Records career starting in 1951, known for an over-the-top performance and later alcoholism?

• A. Guitar Slim
• B. Muddy Waters
• C. Buddy Guy
• D. B.B. King

Answer: (A)

This item tests recognizing a specific early-1950s Specialty Records figure known for a flamboyant live presence and a troubled later life. The artist joined Specialty around 1951 and made a lasting impression with an over-the-top, showman-style performance that audiences remembered. His career with the label was brief, and he later struggled with alcoholism, which shaped how his story is told. That combination—short but influential stint at Specialty, highly theatrical stage antics, and later alcoholism—fits Guitar Slim.

The other artists were associated with different paths: Muddy Waters is tied to Chess Records and a long, expansive career; Buddy Guy rose to prominence with Chess in the late 1950s and beyond; B.B. King had a lengthy, global career across multiple labels. None of them match the specific Specialty Records start in 1951 paired with the described onstage persona and later alcoholism.