 In 1955 Smith played harmonica on Bo Diddley's recording of the Willie Dixon song "Diddy Wah Diddy" for the Checker label.Drummers were in more demand than harp players so Smith switched to drums and starting playing with Muddy Waters band.Smith recorded with Muddy on the 1960 album "Muddy Waters Sings Big Bill Broonzy", a tribute to Big Bill Broonzy.