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Blind Lemon Jefferson

State Historical Survey Committee

Texas

Blind Lemon Jefferson

(1897-1929)

Born near Wortham. As a young street musician, played a guitar and sang spirituals and blues. Composed many of his songs, and had a distinctive vocal style. From Dallas' Deep Elm district went to Chicago in 1920's with a talent scout, made 79 great jazz and blues recordings. One of America's outstanding original musicians, influenced Louis Armstrong, Bix Beiderbecke, Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, Bessie Smith, and other great artists.

Recorded - 1967

Revised: April 19, 2004