Bluesman Walter “Furry” Lewis was born on this day in 1893. He began his career playing on the streets of Memphis at the age of seven, playing guitar and harmonica. He remained active in music until the 1930’s, then remained largely unheard until he was re-discovered in 1959 and had a lucrative career recording and playing festivals until his death in 1981.
Country harmonica player Salty Holmes specialized in playing “talking” harmonica pieces. He played with The Prairie Ramblers as well working with his wife in a duet. Holmes was born on this day in 1909.
Marching band leader John Philip Sousa died on this day in 1932. Not only did Sousa endorse Hohner harmonicas, but he wrote the song “The Harmonica Wizard”.
That’s it for today. Have fun and practice!
