Son House
Son House: The Legendary Bluesman of John the Revelator
Born Eddie James Son House Jr. in 1902 in Mississippi, Son House was a seminal figure in the realm of Delta blues. His raw and evocative vocals, coupled with his distinctive slide guitar technique, shaped the sound of early country blues.
Early Life and Career:
House's childhood was marked by poverty and the hardships of rural life. As a young man, he learned to play the guitar and sang at local gatherings. His unique style quickly gained recognition, and he soon became a respected musician in the Mississippi Delta.
Discovery and Controversies:
In the early 1940s, folklorists Alan Lomax and William Stephenson recorded House's performances. These recordings, including the iconic "John the Revelator," brought him wider attention. However, his career was plagued by controversies and personal struggles.
Challenges and Personal Life:
House faced numerous obstacles throughout his life, including alcohol addiction, financial instability, and legal issues. He spent time in prison and struggled to maintain a stable career while balancing his personal demons.
Discography:
Despite the challenges, House released several influential albums, including:
* "The Legendary Son House" (1965)
* "Father of the Delta Blues" (1967)
* "Son House" (1970)
* "Son House: The Complete Studio Recordings" (2003)
Members:
Son House's band members varied throughout his career, but some notable collaborators included:
* Willie Brown (guitar)
* Bukka White (guitar)
* Lewis "Lew" Holmes (harmonica)
Legacy:
Son House's legacy as a blues musician remains profound. His raw talent and distinctive style have inspired countless artists, including Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, and Eric Clapton. His song "John the Revelator" has become an enduring anthem in the blues repertoire.
Son House passed away in 1988, but his music continues to resonate with audiences around the world. He is remembered as one of the most influential and enigmatic figures in the history of the blues.
Born Eddie James Son House Jr. in 1902 in Mississippi, Son House was a seminal figure in the realm of Delta blues. His raw and evocative vocals, coupled with his distinctive slide guitar technique, shaped the sound of early country blues.
Early Life and Career:
House's childhood was marked by poverty and the hardships of rural life. As a young man, he learned to play the guitar and sang at local gatherings. His unique style quickly gained recognition, and he soon became a respected musician in the Mississippi Delta.
Discovery and Controversies:
In the early 1940s, folklorists Alan Lomax and William Stephenson recorded House's performances. These recordings, including the iconic "John the Revelator," brought him wider attention. However, his career was plagued by controversies and personal struggles.
Challenges and Personal Life:
House faced numerous obstacles throughout his life, including alcohol addiction, financial instability, and legal issues. He spent time in prison and struggled to maintain a stable career while balancing his personal demons.
Discography:
Despite the challenges, House released several influential albums, including:
* "The Legendary Son House" (1965)
* "Father of the Delta Blues" (1967)
* "Son House" (1970)
* "Son House: The Complete Studio Recordings" (2003)
Members:
Son House's band members varied throughout his career, but some notable collaborators included:
* Willie Brown (guitar)
* Bukka White (guitar)
* Lewis "Lew" Holmes (harmonica)
Legacy:
Son House's legacy as a blues musician remains profound. His raw talent and distinctive style have inspired countless artists, including Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, and Eric Clapton. His song "John the Revelator" has become an enduring anthem in the blues repertoire.
Son House passed away in 1988, but his music continues to resonate with audiences around the world. He is remembered as one of the most influential and enigmatic figures in the history of the blues.