Blind Lemon Jefferson, born Lemon Henry Jefferson on September 24, 1893, in Coutchman, Texas, was a foundational figure in the development of the blues genre and is often referred to as the "Father of Texas Blues." Jefferson was not only one of the earliest, but also one of the most commercially successful country blues artists, recording over 100 tracks between 1926 and 1929. Despite his physical blindness, his acute musical vision made him a pioneering force, able to captivate audiences with his remarkable guitar playing and a distinctive, high-pitched voice.

Jefferson's recordings, which included hits such as "Match Box Blues," "See That My Grave Is Kept Clean," and "Black Snake Moan," have secured his place in blues history. His style was characterized by complex and fast fingerpicking techniques that differed markedly from the rudimentary strumming common among his contemporaries. His narrative lyricism and ability to connect with universal themes of sorrow, longing, and spirituality through music have influenced countless artists. Tragically, Blind Lemon Jefferson's life was cut short when he passed away under mysterious circumstances in Chicago on December 19, 1929. Despite his premature death, his vast influence endures, and his works have been celebrated and re-released in numerous collections, including the comprehensive "The Complete Classic Sides Remastered." Blind Lemon Jefferson remains an enigmatic and vital figure in the annals of American music, and his legacy lives on, immortalized through his enduring contributions to the blues.

Genres

Acoustic Blues

Blues

Country Blues

Delta Blues

Gospel Blues

Pre-war Blues

Texas Blues

Traditional Blues

Related Artists

Blind Boy Fuller

Blind Willie McTell

Charley Patton

Sleepy John Estes

Bukka White

Tampa Red

Lonnie Johnson

Big Bill Broonzy

Barbecue Bob

Big Joe Williams

Blind Willie Johnson

Furry Lewis

Latest Release

The Lemon Jefferson Anthology

Blind Lemon Jefferson

Album - 10 Tracks - Released July 5, 2024