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The Blues

One of the most influential styles of American music, the Blues is a living tradition with multiple regional styles. Have a listen with the Sounds of the American Blues and The Roots of Rhythm & Blues playlists from Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, and explore our blues-related collection items.

  • Suit Jacket worn by Bobby Rush
  • Emory Guitar played by Mississippi John Hurt at the 1963 Newport Folk Festival
  • Stratocaster Electric Guitar
  • B. B. King
  • Hohner Blues Harp Harmonica, played by Bobby Rush
  • Hommage à Bessie Smith
  • B. B. King
  • Ray Charles
  • Muddy Waters and Isaac Washington
  • Good Morning ng Blues; How Long
  • Huddie Ledbetter
  • Royalty Agreement for "Walking Blues"
  • Dream Blues; Lost Wandering Blues
  • Libba Cotten
  • Josh White, from the portfolio 'O, Write My Name': American Portraits, Harlem Heroes
  • Huddie Ledbetter
  • Huddie Ledbetter
  • Albert King
  • Mississippi John Hurt
  • Barbecue Blues Bust
  • House of Blues Button
  • W.C. Handy

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