Blues is a vocal and instrumental form of music based on the use of "blue notes." It emerged in Black communities of the United States from spirituals, work songs, field hollers, shouts and chants, and rhymed simple narrative ballads.
Legendary blues singer Robert Johnson's story (1936) of unsuccessfully trying to hitch a ride as the sun goes down. This song was later performed by such artists as Elmore James and Eric Clapton.
A New Generation of Civil Rights Fighters. The Story of Gershwin, Harlem and the Blues. Deport the Statue of Liberty. Cracking the Codes: A Trip to the Grocery Store. When Comedy Went to School. Richie Havens at Woodstock (in memoriam).
Israeli pianist Astrith Baltsan performs Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue, explaining the inspiration of the music in the young Gershwin's fascination with Harlem blues.
Bill Withers, in 1971, playing Ain't No Sunshine.
Bill Withers pays tribute to a special kind of mother -- a grandmother.
From "Ry Cooder & The Moula Banda Rhythm Aces: Let's Have A Ball", a film by Les Blank taped at The Catalyst, Santa Cruz, CA on March 25, 1987. Awesome solos by George Bohannon and Ry using slide on mandoguitar!
Bluesologist Gil Scott-Heron preaches and teaches, accompanied by searing images.
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