Son House (Delta Blues Giant)

Hey Everyone, this is AI generated...I couldn't have said this more accurately or concisely. The reason for this post is to accompany the videos I just posted (they are posted here on my blog)on how to play his most famous song and one of the greatest treasures in blues history.

Eddie James "Son" House, Jr. (1902-1988) was a highly influential American Delta blues singer and guitarist . Born in Mississippi, he initially served as a preacher before embracing the blues. A master of slide guitar, House was a key figure in the development of the Delta blues and influenced legendary musicians like Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters. His career spanned two distinct periods: his early years in the Mississippi Delta during the 1930s and his rediscovery and resurgence during the 1960s blues revival. 

Early Life and Religious Influences: 

• Born in Riverton, Mississippi, on March 21, 1902. 

• His father, Eddie House Sr., was a musician and also a Baptist deacon, exposing young Eddie to both music and religion. 

• Became a preacher at age 15, initially disliking the blues. 

Embracing the Blues: 

• Heavily influenced by bluesman Willie Wilson, House began playing the blues and developing his unique slide guitar style. 

• He played in juke joints and at parties, but his musical career was interrupted by a two-year sentence at Parchman Farm for a shooting (which he claimed was self-defense). 

Recording and Rediscovery: 

• Recorded for Paramount Records in the 1930s. 

• Recorded for the Library of Congressin the early 1940s. 

• Retired from music for over two decades until his rediscovery during the 1960s blues revival. 

• He toured extensively and performed at major festivals like the Newport Folk Festival. 

Musical Style and Influence: 

• Known for his powerful vocals and innovative slide guitar techniques. 

• His music is characterized by its raw, intense, and emotionally charged delivery. 

• Considered a seminal figure in the Delta blues, influencing later generations of blues and rock musicians. 

Legacy: 

• His music continues to be studied and enjoyed, highlighting the power and depth of the Delta blues. 

• He is remembered as one of the most important and influential figures in blues history.