Often referred to as the 'Father of the Blues', W.C. Handy first became aware of the burgeoning genre while listening to a ragged guitarist in a Mississippi railway station. In Handy's own words: 'As he played, he pressed a knife on the strings of the guitar - The effect was unforgettable. His song, too, struck me instantly. “Goin' where the Southern cross the Dog.” The singer repeated the line three times, accompanying himself on the guitar with the weirdest music I had ever heard.'

While this is essentially a jazz recording, 'Yellow Dog Blues' was the song inspired by that genre-defining moment. Taken from the all-star Rhythmakers session, the track boasts a compelling vocal by Billy Banks, stunning solos from Fats Waller (piano) and Henry 'Red' Allen (trumpet), some tight ensemble playing and a heady climax.

Links

http://www.earlyblues.com/Yellow%20Dog.htm
An essay on the origins of the Yellow Dog railroad.

http://redhotjazz.com
An invaluable resource on early jazz, with extensive biographies, essays and downloadable tracks.

http://www.rootsandrhythm.com/
International US-based mail order record catalogue, specializing in roots music.

http://www.jazznblues.co.uk/
UK-based jazz and blues record specialists.