[Harp-L] Little Walter - Defamation

["James" <wasabileo@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Before I comment let me say I did  not see the film. I just found out Marshall Chess (nephew and son of the Chess Brothers) lives in my county and I want to contact him and get his opinion.
As far as the Little Walter incident, I know of no written evidence in any book by Mike Rowe, Paul Oliver, Robert Palmer etc and reports such an incident.
Now, I wish to present two historical facts:
First: Many of the traditional bluesman carried weapons. Sonny Boy II carried a knife (based upon written accounts) The first and only time I met "Lightin' Hopkins" he was packing a 44 Colt under his jacket. It is documented that William De Ford Bailey and Sleepy John Estes slept with a pistol under their beds. These were African Americans living in the South! They could not rely upon police protection. When they did they rambling they might find them in a railroad yard or some isolated place where you better be armed or else. It wasn't "some cool artifact" it was a  matter of survival.
Second point: Many bluesman lived troubled lives.Sonny Boy II and Walter Horton had problems with alcohol but that does not define who they were and should not be the focal point of any film book etc, entertainment or not.
I am a bluesman. I have the deepest respect for all of these folks and the music they gave us. Making a film for commerical success is fine but for God sakes - show a little respect!



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