Sam Chatmon facts for kids
Sam Chatmon (born January 10, 1897 – died February 2, 1983) was a talented guitarist and singer. He was known for his blues music and for being part of a very musical family from Mississippi.
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Early Life and Musical Family
Sam Chatmon was born in Bolton, Mississippi, a small town in the state of Mississippi. He grew up in a family where almost everyone played music. This was common in Mississippi during that time.
The Chatmon Family Band
Sam's family had their own band, and he was part of it from a young age. Two of his brothers, Lonnie Chatmon (who played the fiddle) and Bo Carter (who played the guitar), were also famous musicians. They even performed with another guitarist, Walter Vinson, in a group called the Mississippi Sheiks.
Performing for Audiences
When Sam was young, in the early 1900s, he often performed for white audiences. The Chatmon family band played many different kinds of music. They played popular tunes that people could dance to, as well as Ballads and Ragtime music.
Sam's Musical Talents
Sam Chatmon was a very skilled musician who could play several instruments.
Instruments Sam Played
Besides the guitar, Sam also played the banjo, the mandolin, and the harmonica. He would often play music at parties and on street corners in Mississippi. People would give him money and tips for his performances.
Recording Music
In the 1930s, Sam recorded songs with his brothers. These recordings helped share their unique family sound with more people.
Later Life and Rediscovery
After many years, Sam Chatmon's music was rediscovered, and he became famous again.
Life in Hollandale
In the early 1940s, Sam moved to Hollandale, Mississippi. There, he worked on large farms called plantations. He didn't play music as much during this time.
Return to Music
However, in 1960, Sam Chatmon started playing music again. This time, he focused mostly on blues music. In the same year, he recorded new songs for a record company called Arhoolie Records.
Touring and Festivals
During the 1960s and 1970s, Sam Chatmon went on many tours. He performed at big music events and festivals across the country. Some of these included:
- The Festival of American Folklife in Washington, D.C. in 1972.
- The Mariposa Fest in Toronto, Canada, in 1974.
- The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival in 1976.
Sam Chatmon passed away in 1983, leaving behind a rich musical legacy.
