She is a talented guitarist playing slide guitar and vocalist whose career has lasted over 40 years.
For some, the blues is a musical genre. For Rory Block, it’s a lifestyle.
While that may sound like hyperbole, Block’s fascination with the blues began at age 15 and has stayed with her for nearly five decades since.
“It’s really a personal matter and it’s very hard to tell other people how to love something that you love,” Block said. “It’s just something that sounds so beautiful, so soulful, so powerful. All those things that drew me to it, in the beginning, are the same things that have been such a part of me for so long.” (Montgomery Advertiser)
Blues is a musical genre known as the folklore of African-American musicians. Its origins are associated with the southern states of the USA, that is the region conventionally called the “deep south”. The very name of the genre (sadness, despair) is related to its nostalgic form, also in the textual layer.
Blues pieces touch male-female relationships as well as feelings and emotions (love, loneliness, faithfulness, jealousy). However, blues performers often sing about freedom, work and travel. The songs also feature social criticism relating mainly to racial inequality and political issues.
Many artists are inspired by blues music and combine it with other styles. In this way, such musical mergers as punk blues, soul blues or blues rock. The popularity of this genre in the USA has led to the emergence of regional varieties, such as Louisiana, New Orleans, Texas and Detroit blues. There are also factions characteristic of other countries – British blues and African blues.
For some, the blues is a musical genre. For Rory Block, it’s a lifestyle.
While that may sound like hyperbole, Block’s fascination with the blues began at age 15 and has stayed with her in the nearly five decades since.
“It’s really a personal matter and it’s very hard to tell other people how to love something that you love,” Block said. “It’s just something that sounds so beautiful, so soulful, so powerful. All those things that drew me to it, in the beginning, are the same things that have been such a part of me for so long.” (Montgomery Advertiser)
Rory Block
Rory is a talented guitarist playing slide guitar and vocalist whose career has lasted over 40 years.
For some, the blues is a musical genre. For Rory Block, it’s a lifestyle.
While that may sound like hyperbole, Block’s fascination with the blues began at age 15 and has stayed with her for nearly five decades since.
“It’s really a personal matter and it’s very hard to tell other people how to love something that you love,” Block said. “It’s just something that sounds so beautiful, so soulful, so powerful. All those things that drew me to it, in the beginning, are the same things that have been such a part of me for so long.” (Montgomery Advertiser)
Blues is a musical genre known as the folklore of African-American musicians. Its origins are associated with the southern states of the USA, that is the region conventionally called the “deep south”. The very name of the genre (sadness, despair) is related to its nostalgic form, also in the textual layer.
Blues pieces touch male-female relationships as well as feelings and emotions (love, loneliness, faithfulness, jealousy). However, blues performers often sing about freedom, work and travel. The songs also feature social criticism relating mainly to racial inequality and political issues.
Many artists are inspired by blues music and combine it with other styles. In this way, such musical mergers as punk blues, soul blues or blues rock. The popularity of this genre in the USA has led to the emergence of regional varieties, such as Louisiana, New Orleans, Texas and Detroit blues. There are also factions characteristic of other countries – British blues and African blues.
At the age of 14, she met guitarist Stefan Grossman, who introduced her to the music of Mississippi Delta blues guitarists. Block began listening to old albums, transcribing them, and learning to play the songs. At age 15, she left home to seek out the remaining blues giants, such as Mississippi John Hurt, Reverend Gary Davis, and Son House, and hone her craft in the traditional manner of blues musicians; then she traveled to Berkeley, California where she played in clubs and coffeehouses.
Rory is a talented guitarist playing slide guitar and vocalist whose career has lasted over 40 years.
For some, the blues is a musical genre. For Rory Block, it’s a lifestyle.
While that may sound like hyperbole, Block’s fascination with the blues began at age 15 and has stayed with her for nearly five decades since.
“It’s really a personal matter and it’s very hard to tell other people how to love something that you love,” Block said. “It’s just something that sounds so beautiful, so soulful, so powerful. All those things that drew me to it, in the beginning, are the same things that have been such a part of me for so long.” (Montgomery Advertiser)
Blues is a musical genre known as the folklore of African-American musicians. Its origins are associated with the southern states of the USA, that is the region conventionally called the “deep south”. The very name of the genre (sadness, despair) is related to its nostalgic form, also in the textual layer.
Blues pieces touch male-female relationships as well as feelings and emotions (love, loneliness, faithfulness, jealousy). However, blues performers often sing about freedom, work and travel. The songs also feature social criticism relating mainly to racial inequality and political issues.
Many artists are inspired by blues music and combine it with other styles. In this way, such musical mergers as punk blues, soul blues or blues rock. The popularity of this genre in the USA has led to the emergence of regional varieties, such as Louisiana, New Orleans, Texas and Detroit blues. There are also factions characteristic of other countries – British blues and African blues.
At the age of 14, she met guitarist Stefan Grossman, who introduced her to the music of Mississippi Delta blues guitarists. Block began listening to old albums, transcribing them, and learning to play the songs. At age 15, she left home to seek out the remaining blues giants, such as Mississippi John Hurt, Reverend Gary Davis, and Son House, and hone her craft in the traditional manner of blues musicians; then she traveled to Berkeley, California where she played in clubs and coffeehouses.
For some, the blues is a musical genre. For Rory Block, it’s a lifestyle.
While that may sound like hyperbole, Block’s fascination with the blues began at age 15 and has stayed with her in the nearly five decades since.
“It’s really a personal matter and it’s very hard to tell other people how to love something that you love,” Block said. “It’s just something that sounds so beautiful, so soulful, so powerful. All those things that drew me to it, in the beginning, are the same things that have been such a part of me for so long.” (Montgomery Advertiser)
“Rory Block brings a special style to blues and folk songs,” said Kate Meacham, Ford Center marketing director. “Her devotion to blues will certainly delight our Mississippi audience.”.
Block was born in New Jersey and spent her childhood in New York City, however, has actually dedicated her life and career to not just maintaining the Delta blues tradition, however delivering it to audiences in a new way. She combines standard blues with an ingenious new design, redefining the world of acoustic blues and folk songs.
Block has actually been called “a living landmark” by Berkeley Express and “among the best living acoustic blues artists” by Blues Revue. The New York Times stated, “Her playing is ideal, her singing otherworldly as she battles with legends, shadows and ghosts.”.
Rory is a talented guitarist playing slide guitar and vocalist whose career has lasted over 40 years.
For some, the blues is a musical genre. For Rory Block, it’s a lifestyle.
While that may sound like hyperbole, Block’s fascination with the blues began at age 15 and has stayed with her for nearly five decades since.
“It’s really a personal matter and it’s very hard to tell other people how to love something that you love,” Block said. “It’s just something that sounds so beautiful, so soulful, so powerful. All those things that drew me to it, in the beginning, are the same things that have been such a part of me for so long.” (Montgomery Advertiser)
Blues is a musical genre known as the folklore of African-American musicians. Its origins are associated with the southern states of the USA, that is the region conventionally called the “deep south”. The very name of the genre (sadness, despair) is related to its nostalgic form, also in the textual layer.
Blues pieces touch male-female relationships as well as feelings and emotions (love, loneliness, faithfulness, jealousy). However, blues performers often sing about freedom, work and travel. The songs also feature social criticism relating mainly to racial inequality and political issues.
Many artists are inspired by blues music and combine it with other styles. In this way, such musical mergers as punk blues, soul blues or blues rock. The popularity of this genre in the USA has led to the emergence of regional varieties, such as Louisiana, New Orleans, Texas and Detroit blues. There are also factions characteristic of other countries – British blues and African blues.
Engage your senses: Press play on the video, then stimulate your brain with the article.
Rory Block
For some, the blues is a musical genre. For Rory Block, it’s a lifestyle.
While that may sound like hyperbole, Block’s fascination with the blues began at age 15 and has stayed with her in the nearly five decades since.
“It’s really a personal matter and it’s very hard to tell other people how to love something that you love,” Block said. “It’s just something that sounds so beautiful, so soulful, so powerful. All those things that drew me to it, in the beginning, are the same things that have been such a part of me for so long.” (Montgomery Advertiser)
“Statesboro Blues” is a song deeply embedded in the roots of American blues music. It was originally written by Blind Willie McTell, an influential blues musician, who first recorded it in 1928. The song is named after the town of Statesboro, Georgia. Over the years, it has become a classic in the blues genre, celebrated for its poignant lyrics and melodic complexity.
The Origins of the Song
Blind Willie McTell was born in Georgia in 1898 and became one of the most revered blues musicians of his time. Although he was blind, McTell’s exceptional talent with the twelve-string guitar and his distinct voice set him apart. “Statesboro Blues” is a testament to his skill as both a guitarist and a lyricist.
The song tells the story of a man pleading with a woman to come back to him, reflecting themes of love and loss that are common in blues music. Its lyrics are simple yet powerful, making it relatable to many listeners. The music complements the lyrics with a rhythm that captures the emotional intensity of the song’s narrative.
Impact and Legacy
“Statesboro Blues” gained more widespread recognition in the late 1960s when it was covered by The Allman Brothers Band, an American rock group known for their influential role in Southern rock music. Their version, performed as a slide guitar-driven blues rock interpretation, introduced the song to a broader audience and became a highlight of their live performances.
This cover not only helped revive interest in Blind Willie McTell’s original compositions but also demonstrated the enduring appeal of blues music, bridging generations of music fans. The Allman Brothers Band’s rendition is often celebrated for its energetic execution and has been cited as one of the best live blues performances.
The Song Today
Today, “Statesboro Blues” remains a staple in the repertoire of many blues musicians like Rory Block and is often performed at music festivals around the United States. Its influence can be heard in the work of contemporary blues artists who draw inspiration from McTell’s style and emotional depth.
The song is not just a piece of music but a cultural artifact, reflecting the rich history and enduring spirit of the blues. It captures the universal themes of pain and desire, resonating with audiences across different backgrounds and ages.
Conclusion
“Statesboro Blues” is more than just a song; it is a piece of American musical history that continues to inspire and move people. From Blind Willie McTell’s original heartfelt rendition to the powerful covers by later artists, the song remains a timeless tribute to the blues tradition. It is a reminder of the power of music to express the deepest human emotions, connecting us across time and space.
Statesboro Blues
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For some, the blues is a musical genre. For Rory Block, it’s a lifestyle. While that may sound like hyperbole, Block’s fascination with the blues began at age 15 and has stayed with her in the nearly five decades since. “It’s really a personal matter and it’s very hard to tell other people how to love something that you love,” Block said. “It’s just something that sounds so beautiful, so soulful, so powerful. All those things that drew me to it, in the beginning, are the same things that have been such a part of me for so long.” (Montgomery Advertiser)
Rory Block
Rory is a talented guitarist playing slide guitar and vocalist whose career has lasted over 40 years.
For some, the blues is a musical genre. For Rory Block, it’s a lifestyle.
While that may sound like hyperbole, Block’s fascination with the blues began at age 15 and has stayed with her for nearly five decades since.
“It’s really a personal matter and it’s very hard to tell other people how to love something that you love,” Block said. “It’s just something that sounds so beautiful, so soulful, so powerful. All those things that drew me to it, in the beginning, are the same things that have been such a part of me for so long.” (Montgomery Advertiser)
Blues is a musical genre known as the folklore of African-American musicians. Its origins are associated with the southern states of the USA, that is the region conventionally called the “deep south”. The very name of the genre (sadness, despair) is related to its nostalgic form, also in the textual layer.
Blues pieces touch male-female relationships as well as feelings and emotions (love, loneliness, faithfulness, jealousy). However, blues performers often sing about freedom, work and travel. The songs also feature social criticism relating mainly to racial inequality and political issues.
Many artists are inspired by blues music and combine it with other styles. In this way, such musical mergers as punk blues, soul blues or blues rock. The popularity of this genre in the USA has led to the emergence of regional varieties, such as Louisiana, New Orleans, Texas and Detroit blues. There are also factions characteristic of other countries – British blues and African blues.
At the age of 14, she met guitarist Stefan Grossman, who introduced her to the music of Mississippi Delta blues guitarists. Block began listening to old albums, transcribing them, and learning to play the songs. At age 15, she left home to seek out the remaining blues giants, such as Mississippi John Hurt, Reverend Gary Davis, and Son House, and hone her craft in the traditional manner of blues musicians; then she traveled to Berkeley, California where she played in clubs and coffeehouses.
Rory is a talented guitarist playing slide guitar and vocalist whose career has lasted over 40 years.
For some, the blues is a musical genre. For Rory Block, it’s a lifestyle.
While that may sound like hyperbole, Block’s fascination with the blues began at age 15 and has stayed with her for nearly five decades since.
“It’s really a personal matter and it’s very hard to tell other people how to love something that you love,” Block said. “It’s just something that sounds so beautiful, so soulful, so powerful. All those things that drew me to it, in the beginning, are the same things that have been such a part of me for so long.” (Montgomery Advertiser)
Blues is a musical genre known as the folklore of African-American musicians. Its origins are associated with the southern states of the USA, that is the region conventionally called the “deep south”. The very name of the genre (sadness, despair) is related to its nostalgic form, also in the textual layer.
Blues pieces touch male-female relationships as well as feelings and emotions (love, loneliness, faithfulness, jealousy). However, blues performers often sing about freedom, work and travel. The songs also feature social criticism relating mainly to racial inequality and political issues.
Many artists are inspired by blues music and combine it with other styles. In this way, such musical mergers as punk blues, soul blues or blues rock. The popularity of this genre in the USA has led to the emergence of regional varieties, such as Louisiana, New Orleans, Texas and Detroit blues. There are also factions characteristic of other countries – British blues and African blues.
At the age of 14, she met guitarist Stefan Grossman, who introduced her to the music of Mississippi Delta blues guitarists. Block began listening to old albums, transcribing them, and learning to play the songs. At age 15, she left home to seek out the remaining blues giants, such as Mississippi John Hurt, Reverend Gary Davis, and Son House, and hone her craft in the traditional manner of blues musicians; then she traveled to Berkeley, California where she played in clubs and coffeehouses.
Rory Block – Cross Road Blues Intro – Blues Lesson
“Rory Block brings a special style to blues and folk songs,” said Kate Meacham, Ford Center marketing director. “Her devotion to blues will certainly delight our Mississippi audience.”.
Block was born in New Jersey and spent her childhood in New York City, however, has actually dedicated her life and career to not just maintaining the Delta blues tradition, however delivering it to audiences in a new way. She combines standard blues with an ingenious new design, redefining the world of acoustic blues and folk songs.
Block has actually been called “a living landmark” by Berkeley Express and “among the best living acoustic blues artists” by Blues Revue. The New York Times stated, “Her playing is ideal, her singing otherworldly as she battles with legends, shadows and ghosts.”.
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