b. 28 January 1934, Holly Springs, Mississippi, USA. As a child Thompson was encouraged in his musical interest by a neighbour, Magic Sam. He took up the bass and over the years played with various blues bands, including the Magic Sam Blues Band, Easy Baby And His Houserockers and Cousin Joe. This was especially in and around Chicago where the family was resident from the late 40s. His youngest brother is soul singer Syl Johnson. Another older brother is blues guitarist and singer Jimmy Johnson. At times, Thompson, who sometimes played with both of his better-known brothers, is also known as Mack Thompson.