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Hambone Willie Newbern facts for kids

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Hambone Willie Newbern
Birth name William Newbern
Born probably 1901
Tennessee, U.S.
(probably Haywood County or Brownsville)
Died (1965-04-15)April 15, 1965
Memphis, Tennessee, U.S.
Genres Country Blues
Occupation(s) Musician
Instruments
Years active 1920s - 1940s

William "Hambone Willie" Newbern (born around 1901 – died April 15, 1965) was an American country blues musician. He was known for playing the guitar and singing. He made a lasting mark on blues music with his recordings in the 1920s.

The Life and Music of Hambone Willie Newbern

Not much is known about William Newbern's early life. He was likely born in Haywood County, Tennessee, near Brownsville, Tennessee. This area is in the state of Tennessee, USA.

Playing the Blues

Hambone Willie Newbern was a talented musician. He often played with other famous blues artists. These included Yank Rachell and Sleepy John Estes. They played music together in the 1920s and 1930s. Many things we know about Hambone come from Sleepy John Estes.

His Recordings

Hambone Willie Newbern recorded some important songs. In 1929, he recorded one of the first versions of a famous blues song. This song is called "Rollin' and Tumblin'". He recorded it in Atlanta, Georgia. He only recorded six songs in total. Other songs he recorded include "She Could Toodle-Oo" and "Hambone Willie's Dreamy-Eyed Woman's Blues." These recordings are still listened to today.

Later Life

There were different stories about how William Newbern died. Some reports suggested he died around 1947. However, researchers Bob Eagle and Eric LeBlanc found different information. They believe he passed away at home in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1965.

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