Performing music in the great American soul tradition of Ray Charles, Little Milton, Hank Ballard and Junior Parker, Big Twist and the Mellow Fellows released four records on Flying Fish and Alligator before Twist passed away in 1990. The band released another record on Alligator in 1996 and have continued since to tour nonstop. New singer Ernie Peniston upholds the tradition of dynamic vocalists who have previously fronted the band. Gene's many credits include work with Little Milton, Willie Dixon and the Rolling Stones. He also plays some sizzling saxophone solos and sings on three cuts.
Gene often performs with the band around Chicago, and makes occasional gigs out of town also.