Big Bill Broonzy was a blues singer and guitarist whose musical career spanned the 1920s through to the 1950s.  With his date of birth variously given as 1893 (by him) through to 1903 he is known as ‘the man who brought the blues to Britain’.  Big Bill captivated audiences wherever he performed.  During the 20s to end of the 40s he recorded over 300 tracks, solo, in bands, playing a range of styles and often using pseudonyms so as not to break a recording contract.  However, that did not prevent him having to take on other work including work as a college Janitor in 1950.  Re-discovered in Europe in 1951 throughout the 50s he finally enjoyed some real reward for his abilities, but still had to undertake other work (as a cook) to earn a living.  The age of the professional musician who could earn massive reward was still some way off.  Big Bill sadly died of throat cancer in 1958.  He was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1980.  He is acclaimed as a major influence by so many prominent musicians and performers - John Lennon, Eric Clapton, Jerry Garcia through to Tom Jones.  John Renbourne, Bert Jansch and even Muddy Waters credit his acoustic guitar influence.  Dave Speight has been performing a range of his songs since 1966.

 

British Blues Hall of Famer Dave Speight has put together an amazing set highlighting some BBB finest moment. Definitely not to be missed.