Skip James American bluesman Date of Birth: 09.06.1902 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Career
2. Recording Success with Paramount Records
3. Great Depression and Obscurity
4. Rediscovery and Blues Revival
5. Comeback and Later Career

Early Life and Career

Skip James, born Nehemiah Curtis James, was an American blues musician who rose to fame as a singer, guitarist, and songwriter. His career began in 1931 when he auditioned for talent scout and collector H. C. Speir.

Recording Success with Paramount Records

With Speir's assistance, James recorded a diverse repertoire for Paramount Records, including blues, country-blues, spirituals, and genre-bending compositions often borrowed from other sources. His unique guitar technique and original works earned him critical acclaim, with biographer Stephen Calt noting their "utter originality." Notable songs from this period include "Hard Time Killing Floor Blues," "Devil Got My Woman," "Jesus Is A Mighty Good Leader," and "22-20 Blues" (which inspired Robert Johnson's "32-20 Blues").

Great Depression and Obscurity

James' early recordings for Paramount were released in limited quantities. During the Great Depression, his recording career stalled, and he faded into obscurity. His whereabouts remained unknown until 1964.

Rediscovery and Blues Revival

In 1964, blues enthusiasts John Fahey, Bill Barth, and Henry Vestine rediscovered James in a hospital. Their rediscovery, along with that of Son House, sparked the blues revival movement in the United States.

Comeback and Later Career

James performed at the Newport Folk Festival in 1964, marking his first concert in over 30 years. He resumed recording for Takoma, Melodeon, and Vanguard and continued to tour until his death from cancer in 1969. His song "I'm So Glad" gained further recognition through cover versions by Cream (1966) and Deep Purple (1968).