HOME OF THE MUSIC ECOSYSTEM
Blind Lemon Jefferson had a natural gift of crafting catchy-chord progressions and an accessible vocal range that complements every recording he ever made. “Rabbit Foot Blues” is one of his most popular titles, even earning a commissioned album cover. This mp3 was ripped from the original 78, and the crackle and hiss of this recording makes you feel like you’re listening to an original pressing of “Rabbit Foot Blues.” Enjoy!
“Rabbit Foot Blues“ (play/download mp3)
“Sissy Man Blues” was definitely an original topic when it came out in 1934. Before this song was written, Kokomo Arnold was running a bootlegging business, but after Prohibition was ended in 1933, he was able to do what he loved, making records. Kokomo Arnold, a left-handed slide guitarist, which intensifies his blues-rhythm, as do his strong vocals. His eccentric and rebellious manner is portrayed in “Sissy Man Blues” when he sings against the church, and even asks for a man if a woman is not available to keep him company during the night. A quintessential blues sound with unexpected and subversive topics.
“Sissy Man Blues“ (play/download mp3)
Mississippi John Hurt sings on this thinly veiled song about domestic violence in “Nobody’s Dirty Business.” According to John, the sadism works both ways. Eventually his woman leaves. But John writes her a letter begging her to come back. She eventually returns and I suspect the dynamic keeps cycling over and over again. An important message brought to you from way back in 1935 – sometimes relationships just plain old don’t work out.
“Nobodys Dirty Business“ (play/download mp3)
The Mississippi Sheiks began as a family band and grew into a very successful and well-known band throughout the Mississippi Delta. This piano-guitar duet is an unusual in a country-blues song. “I’ll Be Gone, Long Gone,” is a song which a man laments about all he does for a woman, but warns her she better not get used to him being around. Threatening to leave, the Mississippi Sheiks produce a classic tune with a celebratory instrumental break in themiddle, which lightens the mood.
“I’ll Be Gone, Long Gone“ (play/download mp3)
Ma Rainey, a powerful folk blues singer, known as, ‘The Mother of Blues,’ wrote this song, “Booze and Blues” with her Georgia Jazz Band. Included in the jazz band are the instruments: cornet, trombone, clarinet, piano, and drums – which add to the somber tone of this song. Her drowsy-moany voice pulls you into her discrepancy with the law. While Ma’s monotonous sound gives the feel of one longing for a drink.
“Booze and Blues“ (play/download mp3)
Finding these musical gems and sharing them with the world is my calling. A lot of my posts are significant songs from our past. Thanks to the most modern technology you can listen to this wonderful music using our player or download them.
I hope by posting these music treasures, their magic will be kept alive. Individualism and creativity will be recognized forever, and should be heard.