Washboard Sam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Washboard Sam
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Robert Clifford Brown |
| Born | July 15, 1910 Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, United States |
| Died | November 6, 1966 (aged 56) Chicago, Illinois, United States |
| Genres | Blues |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter |
| Instruments | Vocals, washboard |
| Years active | 1920s–1960s |
| Labels | Bluebird, Vocalion, RCA Victor, Folkways |
| Associated acts | Big Bill Broonzy Memphis Slim |
Robert Clifford Brown (born July 15, 1910 – died November 6, 1966) was an American blues musician. He was best known by his stage name, Washboard Sam. He played the washboard, a unique instrument, and sang the blues.
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The Life of Washboard Sam
Robert Clifford Brown was born on July 15, 1910, in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas. Some people believe he was born a few years earlier. He was said to be the half-brother of another famous blues musician, Big Bill Broonzy.
In the 1920s, Washboard Sam moved to Memphis, Tennessee. He started his music career there as a street musician. He often played with other musicians like Sleepy John Estes and Hammie Nixon.
Moving to Chicago
In 1932, Washboard Sam moved to Chicago. This city was a big center for blues music. He often performed with Big Bill Broonzy. He also played with other great musicians, including Memphis Slim and Tampa Red. They recorded many songs together for Bluebird Records.
Becoming a Star
By 1935, Washboard Sam began recording his own music. He recorded for Bluebird and Vocalion Records. He quickly became one of the most popular blues performers in Chicago. His songs sold very well, and his concerts were always full of fans.
During the late 1930s and 1940s, he recorded over 160 songs. His strong singing voice and talent for writing songs made him very successful. He was known for his unique style.
Later Years and Comeback
In the 1950s, Washboard Sam's music style became less popular. New types of electric blues music were becoming famous. His last recording session for RCA Victor was in 1949.
He took a break from music for several years. During this time, he worked as a police officer in Chicago. In 1953, he recorded some songs again with Broonzy and Memphis Slim. Later, in the early 1960s, Washboard Sam made a small comeback. He performed live for a short time.
Washboard Sam passed away in Chicago in November 1966. He died from heart disease. He was buried in an unmarked grave in Homewood, Illinois.
Honoring Washboard Sam
Many years after his death, people wanted to honor Washboard Sam. On September 18, 2009, a special concert was held. It took place at the Howmet Playhouse Theater in Whitehall, Michigan. The concert was organized to raise money for a headstone for his grave.
The concert was a big success! A headstone was placed on his grave in October 2009. The event was recorded and even filmed for television. Many musicians performed, including Washboard Jo and R.B. and Co. The main band was the Big House Blues Band. This concert helped make sure Washboard Sam's memory lives on.
See also
In Spanish: Washboard Sam para niños
