|
Toni Torino wrote: drewbhoy wrote: Toni Torino wrote: Sunday 28th May 2017 10pm.
Part 2: Blood and Soil
Arena, American Epic Episode 2 of 4
This episode takes a look at the stories of those early music pioneers whose names have largely been forgotten.
In the small South Carolina town of Cheraw, Elder Burch held lively church gatherings which inspired young musicians - including jazz giant Dizzy Gillespie. Gillespie's autobiography cites Burch and his sons as direct inspirations; it is no exaggeration to say that modern music would not look the same without Burch's early influence.
The programme takes a look at the gritty songs and musicians that came from the coal mines of Logan County, West Virginia - The Williamson Brothers, Dick Justice and Frank Hutchinson. The hellish conditions of the coal mines inspired them to find a way out, through their music.
Finally we head to the home of the blues - the Mississippi Delta, where Charley Patton captured the sounds and struggles of life in the cotton fields. Patton's significance cannot be understated; he is widely considered the most influential musician in the birth of blues, teaching some of the best blues artists that followed including Howlin' Wolf, Robert Johnson and Honeyboy Edwards.
Another superb program. Pattons influence can felt everywhere amongst blues and jazz musicians. Great to see some early jazz from Dizzy as well :-)
Those Elder Burch church recordings were something else. Yep, fantastic series. Just one to go.
Fantastic series from start to finish. The recording sessions in the final part were fascinating. Even Elton John sang and played a very decent tune. Jack White and T Bone Burnett come out of this very well indeed. :-)
|
