Furry Lewis
Albums
Facts about Furry Lewis
Furry Lewis was a prominent American blues musician known for his distinctive guitar playing and soulful singing. Here are some facts about him:
Early Life and Career: Furry Lewis was born in Greenwood, Mississippi, in 1893 (some sources cite 1899), and he grew up in Memphis, Tennessee. He began playing the guitar at a young age and was largely self-taught. Lewis worked various jobs, including as a street performer and laborer, before gaining recognition as a musician.
Recording Career: Furry Lewis recorded some of his most iconic songs in the late 1920s and early 1930s for labels such as Vocalion Records and Paramount Records. His early recordings showcased his unique fingerpicking style and expressive vocals. Lewis' songs often drew on themes of love, hardship, and everyday life in the Mississippi Delta.
Rediscovery and Revival: Like many blues musicians of his generation, Furry Lewis fell into obscurity during the 1940s and 1950s. However, he experienced a revival of interest in his music during the folk and blues revival of the 1960s. He was "rediscovered" by folklorists and musicologists, and he began performing at folk festivals and other venues, introducing his music to a new generation of listeners.
Influence on Later Musicians: Furry Lewis' raw and emotive style of blues guitar playing had a significant influence on later generations of musicians. Artists such as Bonnie Raitt, Ry Cooder, and Taj Mahal have cited Lewis as a major inspiration. His songs have been covered by numerous artists, and his legacy continues to be celebrated in the blues community.
Later Years and Legacy: Furry Lewis continued to perform and record music well into his later years. He released several albums in the 1960s and 1970s, including "Back on My Feet Again" (1961) and "Good Morning Judge" (1972). Lewis passed away in 1981 at the age of 88, but his music lives on as a testament to the power and enduring legacy of the blues. He is remembered as one of the greats of the genre, with his recordings serving as a vital link to the rich musical traditions of the Mississippi Delta.