About

Son House, born Eddie James House Jr., known for his powerful voice, intense rhythmic style, and raw emotional delivery, which made him one of the most compelling figures in the Delta blues tradition. His music has inspired thousands of musicians and fans around the world. Writing and releasing over 100 songs, Son House is one of the most highly influential American blues singers and guitarists to date. He was born on March 21, 1902, in Lyon, Mississippi, and he passed away on October 19, 1988. 

 

House's musical career had two distinct periods. In the 1930s, he recorded some of his most famous songs for the Paramount label, including "Preachin' Blues" and "Death Letter Blues." Son House’s Death Letter Blues is considered by many to be one of the greatest Delta blues songs of all time. 

 

It wasn't until the 1960s folk and blues revival that Son House experienced a resurgence in popularity. He was "rediscovered" by folklorists and blues enthusiasts that helped lift his House's recordings and he began his journey of being one of the most sought after performers at the come of the most iconic performance halls, such as Carnegie Hall, and performing at folk festivals like Newport Folk Festival and college campuses, gaining a new generation of fans.

 

Son House's influence on later musicians, and multi-media has continued to live on over 100 years later, particularly in the blues and folk revival movements, cannot be overstated. Oscar and Grammy winning artists like Bonnie Raitt, Cassandra Wilson, Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Robert Johnson, and Howlin' Wolf, Bob Dylan, Mick Jagger, Gary Clark Jr, Dan Auberbach of the Black Keys, Jack White of The White Stripes, Martin Scorcese, Ken Burns, and Beyonce have performed his music and cited him as a major inspiration. 

 

His raw, emotionally charged style and self-taught innovative guitar techniques continue to inspire blues musicians, pop culture, and preserve the spirit of the “Delta Blues.”