Blues Music

  • Influence of Blues

    "Negro Spiritual" music influenced the evolution of Blues music.
  • Period: to

    Blues Music

  • The Beginning

    W.C. Handy is believed to be the first to write a blues song.
  • Beale Street

    Beale Street was a major influence on American Music at this time.
  • First Publication

    W.C. Handy wrote "Memphis Blues" and it was published in 1912.
  • "Father of Texas Blues"

    Blind Lemon Jefferson gave Blues a new sound when he incorporated guitar to the music.
  • Mamie Smith

    Recorded "Crazy Blues" and set a foundation for female Blues singers.
  • Peetie Wheatstraw

    Touched many people with his song about the Depression. Many people related to it.
  • John Lee Hooker

    John Lee Hooker went through Memphis and eventually got to Detroit.
  • John Lee Hooker

    John Lee Hooker had a big hit with his release of "Boogie Chillin". He influenced many with his recordings.
  • Memphis' WDIA

    The nations first radio station to have an all black format.
  • Big Mama Thornton

    Big Mama Thornton released her song "Hound Dog" which went to the top of the charts.
  • Beale Street

    Beale Street didn't have much of an influence on music as it used to.
  • Paul Butterfield

    Paul Butterfield had his own band and they made an impact on Blues with the bands release.
  • The Fabulous Thunderbirds

    The Fabulous Thunderbirds made Austin, Texas the center of Blues.
  • John Lee Hooker

    John Lee Hooker passed away in 2001, leaving behind a great influence not only in Blues but all types of music.