Tonight, I début a new series. “Let’s Explore The Blues” will tell the stories of some of the most interesting music ever created. I am going to try to apply some chronology to this series and will start with the pre-war era, the 1920’s and 30’s.
The links will take you to a version of the song covered by that artist.
The first artist will be Blind Lemon Jefferson. Born blind in 1893, Blind Lemon was a Texas blues guitarist. He passed away in 1929, leaving behind a reputation as the father of the Texas blues. This early master influenced future greats such as BB King, Robert Johnson and even Canned Heat. He even taught T-Bone Walker how to play the guitar.
His early career consisted of playing anywhere and everywhere, and only started recording in 1926. In the span to 1929, he recorded 100 tracks and 43 records. Here is one of his major hit songs:
“See That My Grave Is Kept Clean”.
The following song is listed by the Rock And Roll hall Of Fame as one of the 500 songs that shaped rock and roll.
“Matchbox Blues”
His death in 1929 is surrounded by rumours. A sampling of these include, a lover had poisoned his coffee, froze to death after becoming disoriented in a snowstorm, and a heart attack after being chased by a dog. In any case he died to young. His influence in current culture is widespread. Many of his songs have been covered by current artists, with See That My Grave Is Kept Clean redone by such diverse talent as Lou Reed, Bob Dylan and the Grateful Dead. Matchbox Blues was covered by the Beatles. Hit the link to view. The group “Blind Melon” may even be named after him. One last song before we sign off.
“Black Snake Moan”
Related articles
- Blind Lemon Jefferson: first blues star (matthewsband.wordpress.com)
