Whispers from the Carolina Lowlands in the Strings of Blind Blake
In the latest episode of the Moore Wine and Music podcast, our host Harriet West-Moore uncorks a bottle of Capuchon white wine blend, setting the stage for an exploration into the haunting chords of Blind Blake, a pivotal figure in the realm of American blues music. The journey takes us through the heart of Piedmont blues, interwoven with the influence of the Gullah Geechee culture in the coastal lowlands of the Carolinas and Georgia.
Blind Blake’s life is enveloped in as much mystery as the culture his music subtly reveals. With records from the early 20th century scarce, and stories passed down in fragmented rhythms, the details of Blake’s early life are almost as enigmatic as his death. Harriet delves into what little is known about this influential artist, from his speculated birthplace to the indelible mark he left on American music.
The episode also becomes a personal quest for Harriet, as she reveals her own DNA testing results, drawing a surprising connection to the rich tapestry of the past. This introspection into heritage, paired with the melodic narratives of Blind Blake’s music, provides a unique perspective on the complex interplay between individual history and the broader evolution of a musical genre.
As we traverse the story of Blind Blake, we learn of his unmatched skill in fingerstyle ragtime guitar, an equivalent to the complex ragtime piano styles of the same era. His contributions to the East Coast Piedmont blues are immeasurable, with a playing technique so advanced, it has rarely been replicated with the same finesse.
Harriet discusses the recording history of Blind Blake, highlighting his relationship with Paramount Records, the label responsible for much of his legacy. Despite the popularity and significance of his music, his personal narrative remains fragmented. Conflicting reports about his life and death emerge, painting the picture of a man who lived for his music but was ultimately lost to history.
In the closing segment, Harriet touches on the tragic end of Blind Blake’s life, drawing from the scant details surrounding his death. We’re left with an image of a man whose life and music were cut short, buried in an unmarked grave until much later recognition, including his posthumous induction into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1990.
The episode is not only an educational foray into the history of blues but also an intimate portrait of the search for identity and belonging through the echoes of the past. It stands as a testament to the importance of music in uncovering the stories of those who came before us, as well as its role in understanding our place in the tapestry of cultural heritage.
In conclusion, Harriet reminds listeners to subscribe, share, and engage with the More Wine and Music podcast, inviting experts and enthusiasts to join the conversation on early American music artists. The episode sets the stage for the next installment, where the focus will shift to another influential figure in the blues genre, Ida Cox.
So, refill your glass and tune in to this poignant episode of Moore Wine and Music, where history harmonizes with the present in the key of blues. It’s a sonic journey not to be missed by anyone with a love for music and a curiosity about the roots of American culture.
