Son House was an influential American blues singer and guitarist. Born in 1902, he began his musical career in the early 1920s and gained popularity for his powerful vocals and slide guitar playing style. House’s raw and emotive sound brought him recognition as a key figure in the Delta blues scene. His recordings continue to inspire musicians and shape the blues genre to this day.
Biography
| Name | Son House |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Edward James “Son” House Jr. |
| Date of Birth | March 21, 1902 |
| Date of Death | October 19, 1988 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Delta blues singer and guitarist |
| Style | Highly emotional style of singing and slide guitar playing |
| Early Career | Was a preacher and church pastor before turning to blues performance |
| Influence | Formative influence on Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters |
| Revival | Rediscovered and reestablished career during the American folk music revival |
| Recognition | Inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame for his single “Preachin’ the Blues” |
Early Life
Son House was born on March 21, 1902, in Riverton, Mississippi. He was raised in the rural countryside, where he developed a strong passion for music from an early age. Son House’s family moved to the nearby town of Clarksdale when he was a teenager, which exposed him to a thriving blues scene. He was greatly influenced by local musicians such as Charley Patton and Willie Brown, who mentored him and helped shape his musical style. This move to Clarksdale proved to be a crucial turning point in Son House’s life, as it allowed him to immerse himself in the blues and ultimately become one of the most influential figures in the genre.
Family
| Parents | Siblings |
|---|---|
| Eddie House Sr. | None disclosed |
| Estella House | None disclosed |
Son House was born to parents Eddie House Sr. and Estella House. Unfortunately, there is limited information available about his siblings.
Height, Weight, And Other Body Measurements
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Weight | 180 lbs (82 kg) |
| Other body measurements | Not available |
Wife/husband / Girlfriend/boyfriend
Son House is currently single.
| Name | Relationship Type | Marriage Date | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ella House | Wife | Not Applicable | Ella House was Son House’s first wife. |
| Louise Johnson | Girlfriend | Not Applicable | Louise Johnson was a girlfriend of Son House. |
| Mary Thomas | Girlfriend | Not Applicable | Mary Thomas was another girlfriend of Son House. |
Career, Achievements And Controversies
Son House, born Eddie James House Jr., was an American blues musician and singer-songwriter. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential Delta blues artists. House’s career in music started in the early 1920s when he first learned to play the guitar. He became known for his powerful voice, distinctive slide guitar style, and raw emotional performances.
- Son House played a significant role in the popularization of Delta blues. His recordings influenced many future generations of blues and rock musicians.
- He was a member of the “Great Migration” of African Americans from the South to northern cities, which contributed to the spread and evolution of blues music.
- Notable songs and recordings by Son House include “Death Letter”, “Grinnin’ in Your Face”, and “Preachin’ the Blues”.
- Although Son House did not receive many mainstream awards during his lifetime, his contributions to the blues genre have been recognized posthumously.
- In 1980, he was posthumously awarded the National Heritage Fellowship, a prestigious honor awarded by the National Endowment for the Arts.
- He was also included in the Blues Hall of Fame in 1980 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.
- There have been some controversies surrounding Son House’s personal life, particularly in relation to his relationships and behavior.
- Due to his heavy drinking and a somewhat volatile temperament, House was often involved in altercations and conflicts with people.
- Some critics have raised questions about the authenticity and accuracy of certain biographical details provided by House himself, making it challenging to ascertain the full extent of these controversies.
Faq
Who Is Son House?
Son House (March 21, 1902 – October 19, 1988) was an American Delta blues musician and singer-songwriter. He was a pivotal figure in the development of the Delta blues style and is considered one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time.
What Type Of Music Did Son House Play?
Son House was primarily known for his contributions to Delta blues, a style of blues music that originated in the Mississippi Delta region. His music usually featured his powerful vocals accompanied by slide guitar playing.
Is Son House Still Alive?
No, Son House passed away on October 19, 1988, at the age of 86.
What Are Some Of Son House’s Most Famous Songs?
Son House is well-known for his influential songs such as “Death Letter,” “Grinnin’ in Your Face,” “Preachin’ Blues,” and “John the Revelator.”
Did Son House Have Any Notable Collaborations Or Influences?
Son House was instrumental in influencing many guitarists and musicians, including renowned artists like Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters. He also had collaborations with other blues icons of his time, such as Charley Patton and Willie Brown.
Is Son House In The Blues Hall Of Fame?
Yes, Son House was posthumously inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1980, recognizing his significant contributions to the genre.
