VIDEO The Guitars of Early Blues

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The Guitars of Early Blues In the YouTube video "The Guitars of Early Blues," the host dives into the fascinating world of the guitars that shaped early blues music, emphasizing how accessible instruments enabled aspiring musicians to express their creativity, despite financial constraints.

Key Takeaways:​

1. Early Instruments: Early blues musicians often played whatever guitars they could afford. Many relied on budget brands that were accessible within rural communities. For example, players sometimes created improvised instruments from everyday materials, although these homemade options were rarely used in professional contexts.
2. Stella Guitars: One of the most prominent brands among early bluesmen was Stella. Originally made by Oscar Schmidt and later sold to Harmony, these guitars were decently constructed, affordable, and easy to obtain—often available through mail-order catalogs like Sears. Renowned blues figures including Charlie Patton and Muddy Waters played Stella guitars, highlighting their significance in the blues genre.
3. Resonator Guitars: Resonator guitars emerged from jazz to amplify sound in noisy environments like juke joints. The National company was a leading manufacturer of these guitars, which allowed blues musicians to be heard over brass instruments. Artists such as Robert Pettway and Blind Boy Fuller used resonator guitars for their distinctive sound.
4. Myth vs. Reality: The video discusses how photographs of blues musicians may not accurately reflect the guitars they owned or played. For instance, Robert Johnson’s iconic studio photo features a Gibson L1, but he is believed to have favored the more affordable Kalamazoo brand in real life, as indicated by personal testimonies and candid photographs.

5. Collecting Vintage Instruments: Today, vintage guitars from this era are sought after for their unique sound, despite challenges related to playability and tuning. Collectors are encouraged to focus on the instrument’s sound rather than perfection in quality, as these guitars offer a raw, authentic musical history. The discussion provides a captivating look at how these instruments not only shaped the sound of early blues music but also reflect the socioeconomic conditions of the time. For enthusiasts looking to understand the roots of American music, this exploration into the guitars of early blues is invaluable.​

   What are your thoughts on the instruments used by early blues musicians? Have you ever played a vintage guitar, or do you have a favorite blues artist whose music inspires you? Share your experiences below!