Blind Willie Johnson, Texas blues man and virtuoso of the “bottleneck” or slide guitar, was born in Marlin, Texas, about 1902, and blinded at age seven. Johnson’s unique voice and his original compositions influenced musicians throughout the South, especially Texas bluesmen.
Biographical information on Papa Harvey Hull is elusive at best, but the sides he recored in the early 20th century stand the test of time. Listen here as Papa lays down a chant-rap about going to see the maker.
A gorgeous vintage cut from master bluesman, Carl Martin. This music heals everything from heartache to the common cold. Nice clean recording, too.
They sure don’t make ’em like this anymore. One guy with a guitar and his voice, alone except for a tape recorder, making music more deep than a million overdubs could ever conjur up. ‘Scuse me now while I hop this freight train..
Finger picking blues guitarist and singer Blind Willie Mctell was born William Samuel McTier in Georgia. McTier was born blind in one eye, but by late childhood he had become fully blind. Nevertheless, McTell went onto become an influential blues musician and songwriter. In one of his famous songs, “Statesboro Blues,” you can hear McTell’s well known 12-string finger picking skills.
