Sunday, May 11, 2008

DeFord Bailey


DeFord Bailey was the most influential harmonica player in the first half of the 20th century. Despite such acclaim, DeFord died quietly without recognition of his place in American music history.

- from Deford Bailey: A Legend Lost (PBS.org)

If "haunting" weren't such a music review cliche, I'd have the perfect word to describe these arresting southern solo harmonica pieces. They deserve the noise-cancelling headphones, closed eyes, and a vivid imagination - picture yourself in the hot south with dirty boots on.
Deford Bailey - Old Hen Cackle(mp3)
Deford Bailey - Pan American Blues (mp3)

Download Harmonica Genius DeFord Bailey: Best of Blues, Vol. 1. on emusic or itunes.

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