The Musical Biography of R.L. Burnside: A Son of the Blues

If you are a big fan of blues music, you might have come across the name R.L. Burnside. Burnside is an influential artist who made his mark in the blues world and gained a following worldwide. In this blog, we will explore Burnside's early beginnings, his famous albums, his remarkable songs, and his influence on modern blues. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's take a journey through R.L. Burnside's musical biography.

R.L. Burnside was born on November 23, 1926, in Lafayette County, Mississippi. He grew up playing music on his family's farm, listening to blues and field hollers from his neighbors. Burnside's family was full of musicians, and he learned to play the guitar from his father, grandfather, and uncle. These early experiences gave him a deep understanding of the Delta blues style, which he would later incorporate into his music.

Burnside's first album, Burnside on Burnside, released in 2001, was recorded live in Portland and features versions of his classics, including Poor Black Mattie, It's Bad You Know, and Snake Drive. The album showcases Burnside's unique musical style and his roots in the Mississippi blues tradition. Another of his most famous albums, Come On In, released in 1998, features new takes on classic blues songs, proving Burnside's ability to incorporate his characteristic style into old standards.

His most famous songs include It's Bad You Know, Poor Black Mattie, and Snake Drive, all of which show off his distinctive sound: driving guitar licks, a raw vocal style, and a powerful, charismatic presence. Burnside's trademark style combines North Mississippi Hill Country blues with electric guitar and modern western music, making him a force to be reckoned with in the blues world.

The artist's influences include the bluesmen who lived around him in rural Mississippi, such as Fred McDowell and Mississippi John Hurt. Burnside was also inspired by the rock and roll music of Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley, incorporating their upbeat energy into his performances. His fusion of these genres resulted in his signature style that would come to influence blues musicians for generations to come.

R.L. Burnside was an artist who left an indelible mark on the blues world. His distinctive sound, influenced by his Mississippi roots, modern western music, and rock and roll, set him apart from other blues artists of his time. His style inspired a new generation of blues musicians, and his music continues to resonate with both blues fans and listeners worldwide. So, next time you're in the mood for some blues, give R.L. Burnside's music a listen and experience the raw, visceral sound of a true bluesman.