Mississippi John Hurt was a pioneering American folk-blues singer and guitarist, born in 1892 in Teoc, Mississippi. He began playing guitar at a young age and quickly developed a unique style characterized by fingerpicking and delicate, intricate melodies. Hurt’s music was rooted in the Delta blues tradition but also drew on elements of ragtime, country, and popular music of the time.
Hurt’s early recordings in the 1920s were commercially unsuccessful, and he returned to his farm work. However, his music gained a new audience during the folk revival of the 1960s, and he was rediscovered by a new generation of musicians and fans. Hurt’s gentle, lyrical approach and warm, resonant voice captivated audiences and influenced countless musicians, including Bob Dylan and Taj Mahal.
Hurt recorded several albums in the 1960s before passing away in 1966, leaving a legacy as one of the most influential and beloved figures in American folk music. His songs, such as “Frankie and Johnny,” “Candy Man,” and “Make Me a Pallet on Your Floor,” continue to be performed and recorded by musicians around the world, and his influence can be heard in the work of countless artists across genres. Mississippi John Hurt’s legacy is a testament to the enduring power of his music and the rich tradition of American folk-blues.
1. “Frankie and Johnny”
“Frankie and Johnny” is a classic folk song performed by Mississippi John Hurt, released in 1928. The song tells the tragic story of a woman, Frankie, who shoots her lover, Johnny, after discovering he has been unfaithful. The lyrics are powerful and emotive, with Hurt’s warm and soulful vocals adding a depth of feeling to the narrative. The melody is simple and understated, with Hurt’s finger-picking style creating a gentle and melodic accompaniment to the lyrics. “Frankie and Johnny” is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of traditional folk music and the enduring themes of love, betrayal, and tragedy.
2. “Candy Man”
“Candy Man” is a blues song by Mississippi John Hurt, recorded in 1928. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a candy seller who entices young women with his wares, but ultimately steals their money and runs off. The melody is catchy and upbeat, with lively guitar work and Hurt’s distinctive fingerpicking style. Hurt’s voice is warm and expressive, bringing the lyrics to life with a sense of playfulness and mischief. “Candy Man” is a beloved classic of the blues genre, showcasing Hurt’s impeccable musicianship and unique songwriting abilities. The song’s enduring popularity has made it a favorite among blues enthusiasts for decades.
3. “Make Me a Pallet on Your Floor”
“Make Me a Pallet on Your Floor” is a beautiful and haunting ballad that showcases Mississippi John Hurt’s signature fingerpicking style and soulful vocals. The song tells the story of a homeless man asking for shelter from his lover, and Hurt’s gentle guitar work and emotional delivery bring the lyrics to life. With its simple yet powerful melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Make Me a Pallet on Your Floor” has become one of Hurt’s most beloved songs and a staple of the traditional folk and blues repertoire. It’s a testament to Hurt’s enduring influence and his unique ability to capture the essence of human emotion through his music.
4. “Louis Collins”
“Louis Collins” is a poignant and reflective song by Mississippi John Hurt, released in 1928. The song tells the story of a young man who is murdered by his friend, and the feelings of guilt and remorse that haunt the killer for the rest of his life. The lyrics are powerful and emotive, with Hurt’s warm and soulful vocals capturing the depth of emotion conveyed in the narrative. The melody is gentle and understated, with Hurt’s finger-picking style creating a delicate and intricate accompaniment to the lyrics. “Louis Collins” is a timeless classic that speaks to the themes of regret, forgiveness, and redemption.
5. “Stack O’ Lee Blues”
“Stack O’ Lee Blues” is a traditional blues song that has been recorded by numerous artists, including Mississippi John Hurt. The song tells the story of a man named Stagger Lee who shoots and kills Billy Lyons over a hat in a gambling dispute. The melody is slow and mournful, with Hurt’s fingerpicking guitar work providing a somber backdrop for the tragic lyrics. Hurt’s voice is rich and expressive, conveying the weight of the story with a sense of gravitas. “Stack O’ Lee Blues” is a haunting and powerful song that has become a staple of the blues canon.
6. “Ain’t No Tellin'”
“Ain’t No Tellin'” is a lively and upbeat blues tune that showcases Mississippi John Hurt’s nimble fingerpicking and playful vocal style. The song’s catchy melody and witty lyrics draw the listener in, while Hurt’s expert guitar work keeps them captivated throughout. With its infectious rhythm and infectious energy, “Ain’t No Tellin'” is a standout track in Hurt’s extensive discography and a testament to his enduring influence on the blues genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the world of blues music, this song is sure to get your toes tapping and your spirits lifted.
7. “Spike Driver Blues”
“Spike Driver Blues” is a blues song by Mississippi John Hurt, recorded in 1928. The song’s lyrics describe the dangerous work of a railroad spike driver, who hammers nails into railroad ties while risking injury or death. The melody is gentle and lilting, with Hurt’s signature fingerpicking guitar style providing a soothing accompaniment to the lyrics. Hurt’s voice is soft and emotive, conveying the hardships of the job with a sense of empathy and understanding. “Spike Driver Blues” is a classic example of the country blues genre, with its simple yet powerful lyrics and masterful musicianship. The song remains a testament to Hurt’s enduring legacy as a blues musician.
8. “Richland Women Blues”
“Richland Women Blues” is a classic blues tune that showcases Mississippi John Hurt’s impressive guitar skills and soulful vocal delivery. The song tells the story of a man’s pursuit of a beautiful woman from the town of Richland, and Hurt’s fingerpicking brings the melody to life, while his vocals convey the longing and desire at the heart of the lyrics. With its infectious rhythm and catchy melody, “Richland Women Blues” is a testament to Hurt’s unique talent and his enduring impact on the blues genre. It’s a must-listen for fans of traditional blues music and a standout track in Hurt’s impressive discography.
9. “Monday Morning Blues”
“Monday Morning Blues” is a classic blues song performed by Mississippi John Hurt, released in 1928. The song captures the melancholic feeling of returning to work after the weekend and the struggle of the daily grind. The lyrics are emotive and relatable, with Hurt’s warm and soulful vocals conveying a sense of resignation and weariness. The melody is simple and understated, with Hurt’s finger-picking style creating a gentle and rhythmic accompaniment to the lyrics. “Monday Morning Blues” is a timeless classic that captures the essence of the blues and the struggles of working-class Americans.
10. “Payday”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-p214l5QLI
“Payday” is a classic blues tune that showcases Mississippi John Hurt’s skillful fingerpicking and soulful vocal style. The song’s simple yet infectious melody draws the listener in, while Hurt’s clever lyrics about the joys and frustrations of earning a living keep them engaged throughout. With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, “Payday” is a standout track in Hurt’s extensive discography and a testament to his unique talent and enduring influence on the blues genre. Whether you’re a fan of traditional blues music or simply appreciate expert guitar work and heartfelt vocals, this song is sure to leave you tapping your toes and humming along.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
