T-Model Ford, born James Lewis Carter Ford in Forrest, Mississippi, around 1923 (though his exact birthdate is unclear due to illiteracy and lack of records), was a primal force in the blues music scene until his passing in 2013. Ford's life before his musical career was as tough and gritty as the blues he would later play, marked by hard manual labor, time in prison, and personal tragedies. Remarkably, Ford did not pick up a guitar until he was in his 70s, but he quickly made up for lost time, becoming a celebrated figure in the Mississippi blues scene and beyond.
T-Model Ford's music was raw and unfiltered, encapsulating the essence of the Mississippi Delta blues. His discography, including titles like "Pee-Wee Get My Gun," "She Ain't None of Your'n," and "I Was Born In A Swamp," reflects the rough edges and authenticity of his life experiences. Known for his powerful voice and equally powerful personality, Ford was a beloved performer, noted for his ability to connect with audiences through his music and storytelling. Despite his late start, Ford's contributions to blues music have left an indelible mark, preserving the genre's legacy and influencing countless artists. Through his recordings and memorable performances, such as those captured in "The Boss Of The Blues (Live At The Deep Blues Fest 2008)" and "Hip Shakin' Woman (Live At The Deep Blues Fest 2008)," T-Model Ford remains a towering figure in the world of blues.
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