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Lightnin HopkinsAmerican blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter
Date of Birth: 15.03.1912
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Lightnin' Hopkins: The Lone Star Bluesman
- Early Success and Influence
- A Prolific Recording Career
- Folk Blues Revival
- International Recognition
- Legacy
Lightnin' Hopkins: The Lone Star Bluesman
Early Life and CareerSam "Lightnin'" Hopkins was an American blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter. Born in 1912 in Franklin, Texas, he was one of the last great country blues performers, with a career spanning from the 1920s to the 1980s. Throughout his life, Hopkins' music remained rooted in a mournful Lone Star sound, exemplified by his acoustic and electric guitar playing.
Early Success and Influence
Hopkins' brothers, John Henry and Joel, were also talented bluesmen, but it was Sam who became a star. As a teenager, he played alongside pre-war blues star and cousin Texas Alexander. Hopkins began his career performing in Texas bars in the 1920s. His first major hit was "Katie May," recorded with pianist Wilson "Thunder" Smith in 1946.
A Prolific Recording Career
Hopkins recorded extensively for Aladdin Records in Los Angeles and Houston from 1946 to 1948. Among his hits from this period were "Shotgun Blues" and "Abilene." His Aladdin recordings showcased his distinctive Texas blues style, featuring raw vocals and intricate guitar work.
Over the following years, Hopkins recorded for various labels, both as a solo artist and with small backing bands. Highlights include "Tim Moore's Farm" (Modern/RPM), "T-Model Blues" (Gold Star), "Give Me Central 209" (Sittin' in With), and "Lightnin's Boogie" (Herald).
Folk Blues Revival
Despite his success, Hopkins' style was considered outdated by the rock 'n' roll generation. In the late 1950s, he returned to the Houston blues scene, largely forgotten. However, folklorist Mack McCormick rediscovered him in 1959, leading to a resurgence in his career.
International Recognition
In 1959, folklorist Sam Charters produced Hopkins' breakthrough album, "The Roots of Lightnin' Hopkins." This album introduced his music to a wider audience, establishing him as a master of postwar blues. Hopkins' unique guitar playing and expressive vocals made him a popular figure.
In 1967, he released the autobiographical film "The Blues of Lightnin' Hopkins," which won a Golden Hugo Award at the Chicago Film Festival. Hopkins toured extensively throughout the 1970s, but his health eventually limited his performances.
Legacy
Lightnin' Hopkins remains one of the most significant blues singers of all time. His ability to simplify complex boogie riffs and improvise lyrics in response to his audience made him a beloved blues troubadour. Hopkins' music continues to inspire and influence blues musicians today.
