Complete Recorded Works, Vol. 5 (1936-1937)

Performer: Big Bill Broonzy
Producer: Johnny Parth (Compilation)
Distributor: Allegro Corporation (Dist

Notes: Personnel: Big Bill Broonzy (vocals, guitar); Casey Bill Weldon (vocals, guitar); Tampa Red (guitar); Charlie McCoy (mandolin); Arnett Nelson (clarinet); Alfred Bell, Herb Morand, Punch Miller (trumpet); Myrtle Jenkins, Horace Malcolm, Black Bob Hudson (piano); Fred Williams (drums, wood block). Liner Note Author: Keith Briggs. Recording information: Chicago, IL (05/01/1936-01/31/1937). Unknown Contributor Role: Bill Settles. Big Bill Broonzy recorded a great deal in Chicago during the 1930s, and fortunately, every one of the selections (except for a few that cannot be located) have been reissued on CD by the Austrian Document label in this "complete" series. In addition to selections with a trio (which includes pianist Black Bob and bassist Bill Settles), Broonzy is heard on this fifth volume with the Hokum Boys (on "Nancy Jane"), the Midnight Ramblers (which include Washboard Sam) and the Chicago Black Swans, a band similar to the Harlem Hamfats that adds guitarist Tampa Red). The final four numbers return to the trio format but add trumpeter Punch Miller to two of the songs. Throughout, Broonzy is heard in prime form. Among the selections are "Big Bill's Milk Cow No. 2," "Nancy Jane," "Detroit Special," "Out With the Wrong Woman," "Southern Flood Blues" and "Let's Reel and Rock." ~ Scott Yanow

Blues guitarist Big Bill Broonzy was born in Mississippi but is considered the granddaddy of the Chicago sound. One of the first rural blues musicians to merge southern country flavor with the grit of the urban north, Broonzy was an influence on generations of blues guitarists from Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy to their many subsequent disciples. Broonzy's impact also extended into the folk realm as he collaborated with, among others, Pete Seeger and Josh White and is cited as a major influence by legendary British folk guitarist Bert Jansch. While perhaps not as well-known today as during his 1930s heyday, Broonzy's impact on blues and folk music is inestimable.

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