Latest articles by Tony Russell
Nearly 100 years ago, Jimmie Rodgers wired a connection between the blues and country music with a guitar, some jokes and a yodel
From Mississippi to Northern Ireland to Australia, this classic has inspired musicians from around the world. But can the original be beaten?
Monumental early recordings by the architect of modern blues guitar.
Another Euro-American collaboration for Louisiana veteran Larry Garner.
Charley Patton’s equine tale has inspired generations of blues singers, but can we separate the lame nags from the thoroughbreds?
The Jug Bands Volume One (Natchez NEP 701)
Chicago guitarist and one-time sidekick of Lil’ Ed Williams.
A revealing wide-angle snapshot of one of the great blueswomen.
It’s the song that has ruffled feathers from the moment it first appeared, but did The Rolling Stones or Howlin' Wolf create version of has the most to crow about?
Sonny Boy Williamson's tale of playground love was transformed to fit swinging London by The Yardbirds. But which version is top of the class?
A down-by-the-river country standard about casting a rod competes with Chicago electric blues and swing-dance. Which version is catch of the day?
Two contrasting albums from the early 60s by the Texas bluesman
Downhome blues dragged thrillingly up to speed.
The curtains drawn back on the music that came before the blues.
Timeless recordings of a singer and guitarist who astonished 60s blues fans.
A blues about death first recorded in 1927, and then taken for a walk on the wild side in 2003. But which version is the buried treasure?
