Sister Rosetta Tharpe

[Fab Foodie]

Anyone see this? If not, if you have any interest in music and the development of modern Rock 'n Pop you need to watch this on I-player.

What a talent, what a story. Having an interest in Blues Soul and Gospel, I was surprised I knew nothing about her despite sucess in the UK. Also interesting was a pivotal role that (much underestimated IMO) Jazz Trombonist Chris Barber played in her revival (as well as the develpment of British music in the 50s and 60s).

More than anything though, it was watching her perform, guitar in hand, making moves and shapes (that many male guitar hereos would later emulate) made you realise that some people have a divine gift.
She may not prove the existence of God, but hearing her sing spiritual music does make one wonder ....

Fabulous.

 

[airbrake]

I bought my first guitar in the late '70s, inspired by rock/blues players such as Jeff beck and Jimmy Page. I would read everything I could about their influences, and also the development of blues and rock through the '50s and '60s. Not once did I see any reference to Rosetta Tharpe. Then about a year ago, myself and a couple of other guys from the Gibson forum were looking on Youtube for videos of early 1960s Gibson SG's - of course, there was Rosetta, SG in hand, cranking out some great blues riffs.

It seems that Rosetta was erased from blues history - maybe like those other American blues musicians who were only 'discovered' once the blues had been made popular by the 'British Invasion'.

Although influential to the early rock 'n' rollers, I actually think that rock 'n' roll guitar probably owes more to Charlie Christian and T Bone Walker than Rosetta, but she was a gifted musician and natural performer. Strong hands too - the heavy gauge strings of those days take some real bending !

 

[Fnaar]

Didn't see the prog, but have been looking up some stuff on youtube after reading your post... excellent!