Bukka White: A Life in the Blues
Booker T. Washington Bukka White’s life story is as riveting as the music he created, a
narrative filled with hardship, resilience, and an unyielding devotion to the Delta blues. Born
on November 12, 1906, in north-eastern Mississippi, Bukka’s journey through the world of
music captures the essence of the early blues, while offering a deeply personal window into
the struggles and triumphs of African American life in the 20th century.
Bukka White’s Early Recordings
For fans of early blues, Bukka White’s pre-war recordings are an essential part of his story.
The collection Bukka White: Aberdeen Mississippi Blues – Complete Recordings (1930-
1940) offers a comprehensive look at his formative years, featuring standout tracks like
Jitterbug Swing, The Panama Limited, and Good Gin Blues. These recordings capture
the raw energy and storytelling brilliance that defined Bukka’s early career. Available in CD,
MP3, and FLAC formats, this collection is a must-have for anyone seeking to explore the
roots of the blues.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Stefan Wirz informs us that his real name: Booker T. (Taliaferro) Washington White/k/Big Daddy” is a
transliteration of his given name (first used on the 1937/1940 Vocalion and OKeh labels) that
he reportedly never liked but became the best-known. Born: November 12, 1904, near
Houston, Chickasaw County, Mississippi Died: February 26, 1977, at City of Memphis
Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee Buried: New Park Cemetery in Memphis, TN.
Named after the great African American educator Booker T. Washington, Bukka White was
immersed in music from an early age. His father, John White, a railroad worker and
musician, introduced him to a range of instruments, gifting Bukka his first guitar at the age of
nine. By his teenage years, Bukka had begun performing at square dances, and his talent
quickly drew attention.
Early Recordings
Bukka’s first recording session took place in Memphis May 26, 1930, in Memphis, TN by
Ralph Peer; Washington White, Miss Minnie arranged by talent scout Ralph
Lembo. These early recordings, a mix of country blues and gospel, were released under the
name Washington White.
Though only a handful of tracks were initially published, they showcased Bukka’s unique
style, blending percussive picking with bottleneck slide guitar.
Lost and unissued Recordings
However, the heartbreak is the following were cut but were unissued
“Washington White
– The Doctor Blues (59997-2)
– Mississippi Milk Blues (59998-2)
– Women Shootin’ Blues (59999-2)
– Mule Lopin Blues (60000-2)
– Stranger Woman Blues (60001-2) *
– Jealous Man Blues (62502-2) *
– Mama Ain’t Goin To Have It Here (62503-2) *
– Dirty Mistreatin Blues (62504-2) *
– Over Yonder (62505-2)
– Trusting In My Saviour (62507-2)
rec. May 26, 1930, in Memphis, TN by Ralph Peer; Washington White, Napoleon
Hairiston,
Larry Cohn: The unreleased material has never surfaced and it is generally accepted that the metal parts have been destroyed.
Next he recorded for Vocalion in – . September 2, 1937 1937, Chicago, IL; Bukka White, Pine bluff Arkansas and Shake Em On Down remain iconic examples of his raw, rhythmic
sound.
The Impact of Parchman Farm
In 1937, Bukka White’s life took a dramatic turn when he was convicted of shooting a man
and sentenced to Mississippi State Penitentiary, commonly known as Parchman Farm. While
imprisoned, Bukka continued to write and perform music, turning his experiences into
poignant songs that captured the harsh realities of incarceration. Tracks like Parchman
Farm Blues and Fixin’ to Die Blue became defining works, blending haunting narratives
with his masterful guitar playing.
Folklorist John Lomax visited Parchman in 1939 and recorded Bukka for the Library of
Congress. Although reluctant at first, Bukka allowed Lomax to document his songs,
including Po’and Em Dogs On Washington (Barrelhouse) White
RECORDERED: May 23, 1939 in Camp No. 10 State Penitentiary, Parchman, MS by Alan Lomax; Bukka
White. However, due to issues with the machine they were recorded with wrong
speed ! Library of Congress (unissued)
Gary Atkinson the Document Records MD was and is a huge fan of Bukka White and we
have another interesting story to tell you about all that in the New Year.
Gary set about trying to correct the speed and all agree he did a sterling job as you can
here on our CD
Post-Prison Career and Wartime Years
Released from prison in 1940, Bukka returned to the studio with Washboard Sam with
producer Lester Melrose in Chicago. This session produced twelve tracks, including some of
his most memorable songs:
– Special Stream Line, Jitterbug Swing and Aberdeen Mississippi Blues
When Can I Change My Clothes, Sleepy Man Blues, and District Attorney Blues. These
songs offered a window into his personal struggles and resilience, addressing themes of
identity, systemic oppression, and emotional fatigue.
The 1940s and 1950s were quieter years for Bukka musically. He relocated to Memphis,
where he worked in manufacturing while continuing to play small gigs. During this period, he
mentored his young cousin B.B. King, helping to shape the future of blues music.
Revival and Rediscovery
Bukka White’s music experienced a renaissance during the American folk blues revival of
the late 1950s and 1960s. His song to Die Blues was featured on the influential
album The Country Blues by Samuel Charters. Bob Dylan’s cover of the track in 1962 further
reignited interest in Bukka’s work.
In 1963, guitarist John Fahey and his friend Ed Denson tracked Bukka down by sending a
postcard addressed to Bukka White (Old Blues Singer), c/o General Delivery, Aberdeen,
Mississipp This chance connection led to a series of new recordings and performances,
including the album Mississippi Blues: Bukka White released on Takoma Records. Bukka’s
live performances captivated audiences, and he became a fixture on the folk festival circuit,
touring extensively across North America and Europe.
Legacy and Influence
Bukka White’s contributions to music extend far beyond his recordings. His distinctive
bottleneck slide guitar technique, paired with his deeply emotive vocal delivery, has
influenced generations of musicians. Tracks like "Shake Em On Down; and Aberdeen
Mississippi Blues have been covered by artists such as Led Zeppelin, Bob Dylan, and Jeff
Buckley, ensuring his legacy endures.
In recognition of his impact, Bukka White was posthumously inducted into the Blues Hall of
Fame in 1990, and his song to Die Blue was added to the Grammy Hall of Fame in
2012. A Mississippi Blues Trail marker now honors his life and music in his hometown of
Houston, Mississippi.
Conclusion
Bukka White’s life and music embody the spirit of the Delta blues. From his early recordings
to his later rediscovery during the folk revival, his artistry continues to resonate, telling
stories of hardship, hope, and resilience. His work remains a testament to the enduring
power of music to document the human experience.
You can read the full story here
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