The Birth Of The Blues Part 2

Intro

Hello and welcome to 1001 Heroes, Legends, Histories & Mysteries Podcast. - I’m Gizelle Erickson, doing a tag-team cohost with Jon Hagadorn on this project.  Jon came to me with the task of writing an episode on The Birth of the Blues and I was so thrilled to put this together for you all.  And then, as Horace "Hoss" Logan would say of Elvis, my voice had “left the building”.  A big thank you to Jon for stepping in to voice the episode!  I kind of love our teamwork on this actually, and Jon, I think we should do more joint venture projects!  What do you all think?

In our last episode, part 1, we talked about the incomparable Ma Rainey and her prolific talent for putting her soul to music. 

music cut: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4H7MUq_o4iY Ma Rainey, Jealous Hearted Blues]

With her as “mother of the Blues”, and Charlie Patton as “Father of the Delta Blues” - the two of them influenced just about every Blues singer that followed in some way or the other. 

Charlie Patton got creative with the genre, developing what is now known as The Delta Blues.  Pulling from Ma Rainey’s stripped down, emotionally weighted style, he added a slide guitar using a particular fingering style and harmonica, giving the music a distinctive, haunting sound.  Now imagine hearing this for the first time live in a room full of cigar smoke and whiskey in 1930. 

[Music: start at 1:10, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IT_7slkQbsQ Charlie Patton]

t's no wonder his creative talent sparked a movement through the music industry, musicians flocking to hear this new sound and carrying it way beyond the Delta into different regions.  It took on a life of its own and started a firestorm fanned by musicians around the country.

One of those musicians was W.C. Handy, who as we discovered last week, is also known as the father of the blues thanks to his talent and business savvy.  He made the blues accessible to people beyond the Delta, and he put his own spin on the genre.  After spending some time with the father of the Delta Blues, Charlie Patton’s influence could be clearly heard in Handy’s work.  

Memphis Blues

Handy's move to Memphis in 1909 was instrumental in shaping his musical career. His composition "Beale Street Blues" immortalized the vibrant energy of Memphis and helped introduce the blues to a wider audience.

[MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TyZnHbD4Pw Beal Street Blues by CW Handy]

Beale Street, in particular, became the epicenter of blues music in Memphis, with clubs and juke joints pulsating with the sounds of this new musical form.  It's a vibrant street known for its rich musical history, with legendary blues and jazz musicians like Louis Armstrong, Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and of course, W.C. Handy having played there. Beale Street in Memphis is famous for being the "Home of the Blues" and a significant birthplace of Rock and Roll. 

Handy brought his own flavor to something coined the Memphis Blues.  Distinguished by its vibrant blend of Delta Blues and jazz influences, it often incorporates a wider range of instruments and a more upbeat, danceable style compared to the more raw and rural Delta sound.  The Memphis blues was raw, gritty, and often featured a strong rhythm section in addition to the harmonica.

Memphis is a city steeped in music history, where the soulful strains of the blues resonate through its streets. This vibrant city has long been a magnet for musical innovation, which has become an indelible part of its cultural landscape.

Situated strategically along the Mississippi River, Memphis Tennessee has always been a melting pot of cultures and sounds.  The migration of African Americans from the rural South to urban centers like Memphis in the early 20th century was pivotal for the development of the blues.  With its roots deeply embedded in African American history, this music found fertile ground in this bustling city. This movement, often referred to as the Great Migration, brought with it a rich tapestry of musical traditions that would seep into the blues.

One cannot discuss Memphis blues without mentioning B.B. King, the "King of the Blues." Riley B. King (known to the world as B.B. King) was born on September 16, 1925, on a cotton plantation in Itta Bena, Mississippi. His early life was steeped in the rich cultural tapestry of the American South, a place where blues music was more than just a genre—it was a way of life.

Growing up in the Mississippi Delta, young Riley was surrounded by the sounds of gospel music, which he heard in church, and the blues, which resonated from the juke joints scattered throughout the region. His parents, Albert and Nora Ella King, separated when he was a young child, and he was primarily raised by his grandmother, Elnora Farr.

It was during these formative years that Riley developed a deep love for music. He was particularly drawn to the guitar, and he practiced tirelessly, often playing for hours on end. By the time he was a teenager, he had already started performing with local gospel groups, honing his skills and preparing for the journey that lay ahead.

In the late 1940s, Riley moved to Memphis, Tennessee, already a hotbed for aspiring musicians. It was here that he adopted the stage name "B.B.," which stood for "Blues Boy." Memphis provided the perfect environment for B.B. to cultivate his sound and style, and he quickly became a regular performer on local radio stations.

B.B. King's big break came in 1952 with his first hit single, "Three O'Clock Blues."  The song topped the Billboard R&B charts, catapulting him to national fame. His unique style, characterized by his expressive guitar playing and emotive vocals, captivated audiences and set him apart from his contemporaries.

One of the most iconic aspects of B.B. King's career was his beloved guitar, Lucille. The story goes that during a performance in the 1950s, a fight broke out in the venue, causing a fire. B.B. ran back into the burning building to save his guitar, later learning that the fight was over a woman named Lucille. From then on, every guitar he played was lovingly named Lucille, symbolizing his deep connection to the instrument.

B.B. King was a relentless performer, often playing over 200 shows a year. His live performances were legendary, filled with soulful solos and heartfelt storytelling. Throughout his career, he released over 40 studio albums and received numerous accolades, including 15 Grammy Awards.

B.B. King was known for his generosity and willingness to share his knowledge with younger musicians. He often spoke of how he learned from the blues greats who came before him, such as T-Bone Walker and Lonnie Johnson, and he was eager to pass on that wisdom to the next generation.  By doing this, he provided a bridge of sorts into the contemporary genres.  Throughout his career, B.B. King collaborated with a wide range of artists, from fellow blues musicians to rock legends. His collaborations with artists like Eric Clapton, U2, and Bonnie Raitt helped bridge the gap between blues and other genres, introducing his music to new audiences.

B.B. King was part of a close-knit community of blues musicians who supported and inspired each other. He often performed with legends like Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, and Howlin' Wolf, creating a brotherhood that celebrated the power and soul of the blues.

B.B. King's impact on music is immeasurable. His innovative guitar playing, characterized by his use of vibrato and string bending, set a new standard for blues guitarists. His soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences around the world, and his ability to connect with listeners on a personal level made him a beloved figure in music history.

Throughout his career, B.B. King received numerous awards and honors, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Blues Hall of Fame. His influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians, from blues artists to rock and roll icons.  B.B. King's story is a powerful reminder that music, at its core, is about connection, emotion, and the shared human experience.  For those who wish to explore more of B.B. King's music and learn about his remarkable life, we’ve got resources linked in the show notes.

[MUSIC: https://youtu.be/c74Sw3Rg2rc?feature=shared]

St. Louis Blues

W.C. Handy did not stop with Memphis.  He spiced it up a bit with his song “St. Louis Blues” (Not to be confused with the hockey team named for the song).  In this variation he gives his 12-bar blues structure a kick with a 16-bar bridge in a habanera or tango rhythm.  This composition remains one of the most famous blues songs of all time.

[MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RL9hqPiH6DM St. Louis Blues by W.C. Handy 1914]

The city of St. Louis is nestled on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, a fitting backdrop for a genre of music as dynamic and influential as the blues. The St. Louis blues genre emerged during a time when the city was a bustling hub of commerce and culture. And, like in Memphis, the soulful sounds of the Delta mingled with urban influences to create a new, vibrant form of blues music for St. Louis.

St. Louis's position as a gateway city meant that it was a melting pot of cultures and sounds. The city was home to a diverse population that included European immigrants and Southern transplants. This blend of influences helped shape the distinct sound of the St. Louis blues, characterized by a heavier emphasis on piano and wind instruments, as opposed to the guitar-centric Delta blues.

St. Louis was also a popular place for ragtime and jazz, genres that significantly influenced the development of the St. Louis blues. The syncopated rhythms of ragtime and the improvisational nature of jazz found their way into the blues, creating a unique sound that was both structured and free-form. This fusion of styles helped the St. Louis blues stand out from other regional variations, offering listeners a rich and varied listening experience.  While the St. Louis blues shares some similarities with Texas blues, such as the incorporation of jazz elements, it maintains a unique sound due to its heavier emphasis on piano and wind instruments.

From jazz to rock and roll, the impact of the St. Louis blues can be heard in the music of artists like Chuck Berry, Ike Turner, and even the British Invasion bands of the 1960s.

Today, the spirit of the St. Louis blues lives on in the city's vibrant music scene. Festivals and events such as the Big Muddy Blues Festival celebrate the genre's rich history and ensure that the blues remain a vital part of St. Louis's cultural identity.

Henry Townsend was a local legend and true St. Louis bluesman. Born in Mississippi, Townsend moved to St. Louis as a child and became a fixture in the city's blues scene. Known for his mastery of both guitar and piano, Townsend's music encapsulated the sound of the St. Louis blues. His recordings offer a glimpse into the soul of the genre, blending raw emotion with technical skill.

[MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1bK0_M2Hbc Henry Townsend - Music Man]

Peetie Wheatstraw, born William Bunch, was another influential figure in the St. Louis blues scene. Known for his flamboyant stage presence and unique vocal style, Wheatstraw was a prolific recording artist in the 1930s and 1940s. His work helped to popularize the St. Louis blues and continues to inspire musicians to this day.

I wonder where would you be now, little mama

Baby, now you made my life a wreck

And now where would you be-be, um

Mama, now you made my life a wreck

Mama, now I'd rather have a rattle snake

Honey now, wrapped a-round my neck

[MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYyGO9Puh74 Peetie Wheatstraw - Devil's Son In Law]

Chicago Blues

Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a city that pulses with the vibrant rhythms of the blues. This genre found a new voice in the Windy City, transforming into what we now know as Chicago Blues.  With its burgeoning industrial opportunities, Chicago became a prime destination for those looking for something better.

Upon arriving in Chicago, blues musicians found a city ripe for musical exploration and innovation, artists like Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf adapted the Delta Blues style to incorporate electric guitars, harmonicas, and full bands. This evolution gave rise to a more upbeat and danceable form of blues, characterized by its urban edge and energetic performances  This contrasted sharply with the rural settings of the Delta, and led to the evolution of a new sound.  The introduction of electric guitars, amplified harmonicas, and a full rhythm section gave rise to a robust, driving sound that resonated with the city's dynamic energy.

Unlike the more acoustic-driven Memphis style, Chicago blues included drums and horns, morphing solo blues artists into blues bands, a reflection of the bustling city life.

Perhaps the most notable blues player of the Chicago scene was Muddy Waters, who was known as the king of the area. Although his roots were firmly planted in the Mississippi Delta, he became synonymous with the Chicago Blues.  His arrival in Chicago in 1943 marked the beginning of a musical revolution. Waters' innovative use of amplified instruments and his compelling vocal style defined the genre. Hits like "Hoochie Coochie Man" and "Mannish Boy" remain timeless classics.  

[MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIxFr2HMx6Y Muddy Waters - Hoochie Coochie Man [1954]

Born McKinley Morganfield, Waters' early recordings, such as "I Can't Be Satisfied," showcase the traditional Delta Blues sound before he electrified it in Chicago.  His song “Rollin’ Stone” sold 80,000 copies and was the inspiration for the name of the band The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone,” and even Rolling Stone magazine.

About this time Howlin’ Wolf was also making his mark on Chicago. While Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf were the faces of Chicago Blues, Willie Dixon was the brains. As a prolific songwriter and producer, Dixon penned many of the songs that defined the genre. His work with Chess Records, the legendary Chicago label, helped shape the sound of blues and influenced countless artists.

Other notable Chicago blues artists include Buddy Guy, known for his fiery guitar playing and passionate vocals, Buddy Guy's influence extends beyond blues to rock and roll, impacting artists like Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton.  Koko Taylor, called The "Queen of the Blues," Taylor's powerful voice and commanding presence made her one of the most beloved figures in the Chicago blues world.

The impact of Chicago Blues extends far beyond the genre itself. The electrified sound and emotive storytelling inspired a generation of rock musicians. Bands like The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and The Beatles drew heavily from the blues, incorporating its elements into their own music.  Today, Chicago Blues continues to thrive. Venues like Buddy Guy's Legends and the annual Chicago Blues Festival keep the spirit alive, while contemporary artists build on the foundation laid by the legends of the past.

Piedmont Blues

Originating in the Southeastern United States, Piedmont Blues is known for its ragtime-influenced guitar picking style. Artists like Blind Blake and Reverend Gary Davis showcased complex fingerpicking and a lighter, more melodic sound compared to the raw intensity of the Delta Blues.  While Delta Blues often focuses on themes of hardship, Piedmont Blues tends to have a more upbeat and playful tone.

Texas Blues

Texas Blues is another regional variation that developed concurrently with the Delta Blues.  Unlike the emotive storytelling of Memphis blues, Texas blues often showcases technical prowess and improvisation. Known for its distinctive guitar style and blending of swing, jazz, and country influences, Texas Blues artists like Blind Lemon Jefferson and T-Bone Walker brought a unique flavor to the blues.  The music is characterized by its smooth guitar licks, a more polished sound, and a wider variety of lyrical themes.  Artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan and T-Bone Walker are quintessential representatives of this style.  While Chicago Blues is gritty and urban, Texas Blues offers a more laid-back, yet equally compelling sound.

Transforming the Future of Music

Elvis

Returning to the Mother of the Blues, one of the most intriguing aspects of Ma Rainey’s legacy is her indirect connection to Elvis Presley. While Ma Rainey herself never lived to see the rise of rock 'n' roll, her influence on the genre is undeniable. Elvis Presley, who is often credited with popularizing rock 'n' roll, was known to draw inspiration from blues and gospel music, both of which were deeply intertwined with Ma Rainey’s work.

Interestingly, Elvis often opened his shows with "See See Rider," a song that Ma Rainey recorded in 1924. This song, also known as "C.C. Rider," became a staple of his live performances, further cementing the bridge between blues and rock 'n' roll. It serves as a testament to Rainey’s enduring impact on the music world, influencing artists across genres and generations.

[MUSIC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7L1hE3Qhv7E  See See Rider, Ma Rainey fade into Elvis’ version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jzc0MhZXXzg]

Sammy Davis Jr

Sammy Davis Jr., a name synonymous with versatility, talent, and charisma, carved a unique niche for himself in the entertainment industry. While he's often associated with jazz, swing, and pop, Davis had a profound connection to the blues. His journey through the world of blues music is both intriguing and inspiring, with connections to legendary artists like Ma Rainey and Frank Sinatra.

Sammy Davis Jr. was a true Renaissance man, excelling as a singer, dancer, actor, and comedian. Born on December 8, 1925, in Harlem, New York, Davis was a natural performer from a young age. His career began in vaudeville, where he was part of the Will Mastin Trio, alongside his father and uncle. As his talents matured, Davis became a leading figure in the entertainment industry, breaking racial barriers and challenging stereotypes.

Although Sammy Davis Jr. is not primarily known as a blues singer, his exposure to the blues began early in his career. The world of vaudeville, where he started performing, was rich with various musical influences, including blues. As a versatile performer, Davis was naturally drawn to the emotional depth and complexity of the blues.

It's important to note that while there is no direct personal connection documented between Sammy Davis Jr. and Ma Rainey, her influence permeated the music world during his formative years. The emotional storytelling and raw expressiveness of Ma Rainey's music undoubtedly left an impression on Davis. As a performer who embraced the emotional intensity of his craft, Davis found inspiration in the blues' ability to convey deep feelings and social commentary.

One of Sammy Davis Jr.'s notable contributions to the blues genre is his rendition of “The Birth of the Blues,” which we quoted at the top of this show.  The song, a jazz standard originally composed by Ray Henderson with lyrics by Buddy G. DeSylva and Lew Brown, tells the story of the emergence of blues music. Davis's version stands out for its dynamic delivery and heartfelt interpretation, showcasing his ability to infuse traditional blues with his unique style.

In his performances, Davis often explored themes common to blues music, such as love, loss, and perseverance. His ability to convey emotion and connect with audiences made his blues interpretations memorable. Songs like “The Birth of the Blues” allowed him to pay homage to the genre while adding his own flair.

The Sinatra Connection: A Friendship and Musical Collaboration

Sammy Davis Jr.'s connection to Frank Sinatra was legendary. Alongside Dean Martin, Joey Bishop, and Peter Lawford, Davis and Sinatra were key members of the Rat Pack, a group of entertainers known for their camaraderie, talent, and influence in the 1960s. The Rat Pack's performances were characterized by humor, music, and a sense of effortless cool.

Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. shared a deep personal bond, rooted in mutual respect and admiration. Sinatra, a staunch advocate for civil rights, supported Davis during times of racial tension and discrimination. Their friendship was more than professional; it was a genuine connection between two artists who understood each other's struggles and triumphs.

Their musical collaborations were a testament to their shared love for music. One of Sinatra's albums, “The Birth of the Blues,” highlights their collaborative spirit. Although “The Birth of the Blues” was a popular standard, the album brought a fresh interpretation of the song, encapsulating both artists' talents.

Frank Sinatra's album “The Birth of the Blues” features a collection of songs that celebrate the blues and its influence on modern music. The album showcases Sinatra's ability to interpret blues standards with sophistication and flair. His collaboration with Sammy Davis Jr. on the titular track brought a dynamic energy to the project.

Sammy Davis Jr.'s rendition of “The Birth of the Blues” is a testament to his versatility as an artist. His interpretation of the song added a distinct flavor, blending elements of jazz and blues in a way that resonated with audiences. Davis's influence on the song highlights his ability to bridge genres and bring a fresh perspective to classic compositions.

The influence of the blues didn’t stop there.  Many great rock songs also started off as blues songs, like Black Betty, from Lead Belly, first recorded in 1939, but way before that, it was a folk song.   The term “Black Betty” may refer to whiskey or a bottle of liquor, but other meanings have also been mentioned including it being a reference to a musket, a leather whip, or a jail wagon.  Ram Jam’s version became a rock classic in 1977, although there were initially calls for a boycott due to the lyrics.

[MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fii6PX0-VXs - Lead Belly’s version… fade into Ram Jam’s version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_2D8Eo15wE]

The story of Robert Johnson selling his soul to the devil so he could be the best guitar player in the world supposedly happened at the “Crossroads.”  Cream recorded several blues standards but their version of “Crossroads” became one of their most well-known songs.  Eric Clapton even got a big nod from Rolling Stone when they ranked it at #3 on their “Greatest Guitar Songs of All Time” list, in recognition of Clapton’s guitar work.

[MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yd60nI4sa9A Johnsons version, fade into Clapton's version https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PE9HvSdcaL4]

The prolific song writer from Chicago, Willie Dixon wrote “I Can’t Quit You Baby” for Otis Rush to sing in 1956, and it became a hit.  Led Zeppelin later covered the song for their debut album in 1969, the second Willie Dixon song on that album.  Zeppelin performed the song live regularly during their early years, and Rush’s original single was inducted into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame in 1994.

[MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uy2tEP3I3DM fade into https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dA5Vfl1bbU]

Singer Erma Franklin, Aretha Franklin’s older sister released a little song called “Piece of my Heart” which was taken up by the legendary Janis Joplin.  Franklin’s version was #10 on the R&B charts, but Joplin’s version became her signature song and biggest chart success.

[MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0QAxIKf8G4 fade into https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AxXg4Irb6yE]

These are just a few examples of covers later artists did of early blues songs - proving that this genre of music is a timeless expression of the human experience.  The rhythms and sentiments expressed continue to be relevant, more than 100 years later. 

Conclusions

The lyrics of the Blues are, at first glance, centered around pain, betrayal, trauma, heartbreak, and loneliness.  But the drive of the music and the persistence of the lyrics, the persistence of the genre itself, tell of the undercurrent of strength and survival, courage and perseverance of those willing to put their heart out there for all to hear.  And, in the same moment we are given a chance to understand their heartbreak, we are also invited to take on their strength for the benefit of our own lives.  The Blues speaks to us because we, all of us, have our own internal desperations, addictions and depressions, and those who listen for it, can also know the fortitude of persistence through adversity.  For that, we are grateful to these artists that forged the path through their experiences to show us the way. 

Ma Rainey’s contributions to music were profound and long-lasting. Her work laid the groundwork for future blues artists and helped shape the development of American music. Despite facing the challenges of racial and gender barriers, she carved out a niche for herself in a male-dominated industry and left an indelible mark on the blues.

Ma Rainey’s story is one of resilience, talent, and influence. Her music continues to inspire and captivate listeners, ensuring that the legacy of the "Mother of the Blues" will endure for generations to come. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her work, Ma Rainey's life and music offer a fascinating glimpse into the origins of the blues and its lasting impact on American culture.

Today, Ma Rainey is celebrated not only for her musical achievements but also as a trailblazer who opened doors for women in the music industry. Her life and career have been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and even a play by August Wilson, "Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom," which was adapted into a film in 2020.

For those looking to delve deeper into her life and music, there are several resources linked in the show notes.  

Thank you for joining us on this episode of 1001 Heroes.  Please leave a review for this show and let Jon know you are enjoying stories of this kind.  Let him know, what is your favorite blues artist or song?  For now we leave you with Ma Rainey. 

[MUSIC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nl2CpegOuXY Black Bottom, Ma Rainey]

Resources Used:

• https://www.britannica.com/art/blues-music
• https://publicdomain4u.com
• Ted Lewis Jazz Band, W. C Handy, and Ted Lewis. The Memphis blues. 1923. Audio. Retrieved from the Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/item/jukebox-669804/
• Ted Lewis Jazz Band, W. C Handy, and Ted Lewis. St. Louis blues. 1922. Audio. Retrieved from the Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/item/jukebox-669595
• https://jfderry.wordpress.com/2015/08/18/charlie-patton-1891-1934-father-of-the-blues-part-2/
• https://visitmississippi.org/experiences/the-history-of-mississippi-delta-blues-music/
• https://www.allmusic.com/artist/ma-rainey-mn0000237213/biography
• https://www.pbs.org/wnet/americanmasters/ma-rainey-about/14074/
• https://www.loc.gov/item/ihas.200197432/
• https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/104187.Bessie: A comprehensive biography detailing Bessie Smith's life and career.
• https://www.pbs.org/wnet/americanmasters/bessie-smith-about-the-empress-of-the-blues/724/: An informative documentary exploring her impact on the music world.
• https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/bessie-smith: A detailed biography highlighting her contributions to music and culture.
• https://www.biography.com/musician/wc-handy
• [Library of Congress’s collection](https://www.loc.gov/collections/w- c-handy-papers/about-this-collection/)
• Explore B.B. King's discography: https://www.allmusic.com/artist/bb-king-mn0000059156/discography
• Listen to B.B. King and Eric Clapton's "Riding with the King": https://www.jamendo.com/track/riding-with-the-king
• Discover more about B.B. King's honors: https://rockhall.com/inductees/bb-king
• B.B. King's Official Website: https://www.bbking.com
• AllMusic Biography: https://www.allmusic.com/artist/bb-king-mn0000059156/biography
• For more information on the blues and its history, visit https://www.deltabluesmuseum.org
• https://blues.org
• https://folkways.si.edu/blues
• https://www.memphisrocknsoul.org
• https://mohistory.org/
• https://stlouisbluessociety.org/
• https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_blues_festival.html is a must-visit for blues enthusiasts.
• https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1217091.Sammy_Davis_Jr_
• [Ma Rainey's Black Bottom](https://www.imdb.com/title
• https://classicsdujour.com/classic-rock-hits-that-are-actually-blues-songs/
• https://www.robertjohnsonbluesfoundation.org/
• https://www.pbs.org/robertjohnson/notebooks/
• https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/blues-paramount-records/ - A comprehensive history of Paramount Records, the label that recorded some of Willie Brown's notable tracks.
• https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/robert-johnson-the-search-for-the-man-behind-the-myth-116078151/