[Harp-L] Re: re: Improv in Blues

["M. N." <mnessmith@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Jp wrote:
"Little Walter started out playing in the same style that was popular with 
alot of other harp players at the time, according to people who've reviewed 
his work, based on Sonny Boy's style ..."

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If I remember correctly from "Blues With a Feeling: The Little Walter Story" 
(by Tony Glover, Scott Dirks and Ward Gaines), Walter also spent loads of 
time on sidewalks down south blasting out EVERYTHING -- polkas, reels, 
novelty songs, country ballads ... whatever would induce passersby to drop 
something in the hat. I think there's a lot to be said for the 
take-a-stab-at-everything approach. The book also reveals that he really dug 
Lawrence Welk :-o and was a u-blocker for single notes. Recommended reading.
MN