Josh White – Josh White

Josh White – Josh White

Josh White showcases the extraordinary voice and guitar playing of Josh White, one of the most influential African-American folk and blues artists of the 20th century. Known for his powerful interpretations of traditional songs, blues standards and socially conscious material, White became an important figure in the American folk revival and helped bring the music of the blues and African-American folk tradition to a wider audience.

The album demonstrates the remarkable breadth of White's repertoire. Traditional songs such as I Gave My Love A Cherry, Molly Malone, The Lass With The Delicate Air, Lord Randall, My Son and Waltzing Matilda sit alongside classic American folk and blues material including John Henry and Nobody Knows You When You're Down And Out.

One of the album's most powerful performances is Strange Fruit, the haunting anti-racist song famously associated with Billie Holiday. White's interpretation reflects the serious social and political themes that became an important part of his later career, while tracks such as Evil Hearted Man, Jelly, Jelly and Back Water Blues highlight his deep connection to the blues tradition.

The closing Josh And Bill Blues adds another dimension to the collection, emphasising White's strength as a blues guitarist and performer. Throughout the album, his distinctive voice, intricate guitar technique and ability to inhabit traditional material give these songs a timeless quality.

For listeners interested in Josh White, American folk music, blues, protest songs and the history of the folk revival, Josh White offers a compelling portrait of an artist whose music connected traditional African-American blues with the emerging modern folk movement.

Tracklist

Side A

1. I Gave My Love A Cherry
2. Molly Malone
3. Green Grass Growing All Around
4. The Lass With The Delicate Air
5. Lord Randall, My Son
6. Watercress
7. Waltzing Matilda
8. John Henry

Side B

1. Strange Fruit
2. Nobody Knows You When You Are Down And Out
3. Evil Hearted Man
4. Jelly, Jelly
5. Sometime
6. Frankie And Johnny
7. Back Water Blues
8. Josh And Bill Blues