Blind Roosevelt Graves facts for kids

Le Moise Roosevelt Graves (born December 9, 1909 – died December 30, 1962) was an American blues musician. He was known as Blind Roosevelt Graves. He played the guitar and sang. He recorded both religious and non-religious songs in the 1920s and 1930s.

About Roosevelt Graves

Roosevelt Graves was born in Mississippi. He played music with his brother, Uaroy Graves. Uaroy was also nearly blind and played the tambourine. They were known as "Blind Roosevelt Graves and Brother".

Early Recordings

Their first recordings were made in 1929 for Paramount Records. They recorded a song called "Guitar Boogie". Many people think their version is the earliest one ever recorded. They also sang gospel songs, like "I'll Be Rested".

A music researcher named Gayle Dean Wardlow suggested something exciting. He said their 1929 song "Crazy About My Baby" might be the first rock 'n' roll recording.

The Mississippi Jook Band

In 1936, Roosevelt and Uaroy recorded more songs. They were joined by a piano player named Cooney Vaughn. Cooney often played on the radio. This group was called the Mississippi Jook Band.

They recorded four songs together. Music experts have said these songs had "fully formed rock & roll guitar riffs" and a "stomping rock & roll beat." This shows how important their music was for the future of rock and roll.

Later Life and Legacy

The Graves Brothers did not record music after these sessions. Roosevelt Graves later moved to Gulfport, Mississippi. He passed away in 1962.

For many years, people were unsure about Uaroy's real name. Some thought it was "Aaron" or "Leroy." But in 2004, old recording notes were found. These notes clearly showed his name was "Uaroy Graves."

In 2008, the music of the Graves brothers was honored. A special marker was placed on the Mississippi Blues Trail. This trail helps remember the state's amazing musical history.