Artist:Blind Blake
Song:He's in the Jailhouse Now
Album:The Best of Blind Blake
Though he only recorded from 1926-32 and died in 1934, bluesman Arthur "Blind" Blake is considered to be very influential because of his guitar technique. He was also a pretty good singer. The only problem is his life is a bit of a mystery. Blake was born blind in 1896 but we're not sure of his birthplace. He could have been born in Jacksonville, FL or Patterson, GA. because he has family there. But his recently discovered death certificate says that he was born in Newport News, VA. Blake recorded for Paramount Records from 1926-32. Paramount recorded many blues artists in the 20s. They were owned by Wisconsin Chair who owned United Phonograph. So they were in the recording business to sell phonographs. Paramount closed in 1935. Blake's recordings sold well and his ragtime based guitar style was very influential on other Piedmont blues musicians. Blake wrote his own songs. But He's in the Jailhouse Now was written by country music legend Jimmy Rodgers. Big Bill Broonzy was among those who admired Blake's guitar playing. Those influenced by Blake include Reverend Gary Davis, Ry Cooder and Leon Redbone. This Yazoo Records budget comp is a good intro to Blake's music. Paramount declared bankruptcy in 1932. That ended Blake's music career. For many years, it was rumored that Blake died a violent death. Recent research revealed that after Paramount closed, Blake and his wife lived in Milwaukee near the Paramount studio. Blake was hospitalized with pneumonia in Apr. 1933. He never fully recovered and died on Dec. 1, 1934 at age 38. Here's a video for He's in the Jailhouse Now by Blind Blake.
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