Cripple Clarence Lofton – “Monkey Man Blues”
Born Albert Clemens in Kingsport, Tennessee in March of 1887, Cripple Clarence Lofton was a key figure in the Chicago Boogie Woogie and Blues music scenes. His stage presence was legendary, with a live performance that included virtuoso piano work, singing, storytelling, percussion, and even his own high energy dance steps. In the 1930’s, Lofton recorded and performed with Big Bill Broonzy and other giants of pre-war blues, continuing to retirement the late 1940’s. Here is one of his great classic sides, “Monkey Man Blues,” on mp3 from the 78 RPM disc.
The lyrics and music that Son House put down in the 1920’s and early 30’s left an indelible mark on blues, country, rock, RnB, and just about every genre of American music. His classic “My Black Mama (Part 1)” has been covered and reinterpreted by a who’s-who of blues legends including Robert Johnson, who recorded it as “Walkin’ Blues.” John Lee Hooker called his post-war version “Burnin’ Hell,” based on the lines “Ain’t no heaven, ain’t no burnin’ hell, where I’m goin’ when I die, can’t nobody tell.” This amazing solo vocal and guitar performance has lost none of its power over nearly a century since it was released on 78 RPM discs.
Country blues fiddle pioneer Jim Booker recorded with Taylor’s Kentucky Boys, as well as his own Booker Orchestra. This track called “Forked Deer” showcases his nimble finger technique and energetic, highly melodic musical style. This was definitely dance music at the time of its creation, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself tapping your feet or doing a spontaneous hoe-down! Pure instrumental early bluegrass fun.
This great performance of the instrumental Roaring 20’s romp, “Toodles,” by Edison Recording Artist, the Charleston 7, stands the test of time on this MP3 from the original Edison Disc. You may recognize a theme or two from this piece, which were later borrowed by the Looney Tunes gang for Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck cartoons! Step into the Wayback Machine in your finest flapper apparel, and dance the Charleston to this high energy combo!
How crazy is crazy blues? Well, has you ever been in love? If you has, then you knows! If you hasn’t, then you don’t. This song is but a preview for the uninitiated, and a calming opiate for those in the know. Oh, that trombone makes our knees buckle. This song was huge hit in its day, and ain’t no reason you shouldn’t have it in your iPod or whatever gizmo you kids are runnin’ with. Clean mp3 copy on this one, too.
Here’s another great recording by the Mother Of The Blues, Ma Rainey, expertly accompanied by Thomas A. Dorsey on upright piano. The lyrics to this song are pure blues poetry, and Rainey delivers them with unrivaled sincerity, ease and power. Here is a clean digital transfer from 78RPM Shellac for all to enjoy.