Search - Sleepy John Estes :: On 80 Highway

Previously unreleased 1974 studio session from two beloved masters of country blues, Sleepy John Estes, and his long time runnin' partner, Hammie Nixon.Sleepy John Estes (b. 1899 or 1904 - d. 1977) 'The Tennessee Blues Poet' had one of the most distinctive blues voices of all, with a high pitched crying singing style that sounded old as the dirt on 80 Highway. Estes' voice IS the Blues - full of loss, despair, and loneliness with a warm, wise, and witty way about him - almost overwhelmingly emotional!Hammie Nixon (1908-1984) and Sleepy John performed together for over half a century, first recording together in the mid 30's in Chicago for the Decca label. Hammie has to be one of the most underrated harmonica players of all; he was a huge influence on Sonny Boy Williamson #1. Hammie is thought to be one of the pioneers of harmonica as a rhythm instrument in a band setting, as opposed to a novelty solo instrument. His wailing and mournful harp style was the perfect complement to Estes' moaning voice. Check out Hammie's powerful and expressive vocals on Tater Diggin' Man, one of the session's many highlights, including many playful vocal duets.Particularly moving is the standout track, President Kennedy in which Estes moans 'everybody was sad, we lost the best President we ever had.' In fact, Estes had previously guested on Ry Cooder's '72 album, Boomer's Story, performing this same heartfelt and poignant number. Topical political blues at its best.These never before issued sides were recorded just before Estes and Nixon's trip to Japan, the first country blues visit to that country!