About This Footage
This rare footage of Mick Robbins performing "No Special Rider Blues" by Little Brother Montgomery is a treasure trove for blues enthusiasts and aficionados of American roots music. The clip, uploaded to YouTube in 2011, captures a special moment in time when the legacy of a jazz and blues great was being kept alive by a younger generation of musicians.
The fact that this performance took place at The Eaton Cottage in Norwich, UK, adds an interesting layer to the narrative. It suggests that Little Brother Montgomery's music had transcended geographical boundaries and cultural contexts, resonating with audiences across the globe. The Honeydripper Blues Band, featuring Mick Robbins on piano, was likely inspired by Montgomery's unique blend of jazz, boogie-woogie, and blues styles.
Little Brother Montgomery himself was a true original, a pianist and singer who defied categorization. Born in 1906, he began his career in the 1920s, playing with some of the most influential musicians of the time, including Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton. Throughout his long and storied career, Montgomery continued to innovate and experiment, pushing the boundaries of what was possible on the piano.
The clip itself is a testament to the enduring power of Little Brother Montgomery's music. "No Special Rider Blues" is a masterclass in blues piano, with Robbins delivering a nuanced and expressive performance that does justice to the original composition. The camera work, while simple, captures the intimacy and immediacy of the live setting, drawing the viewer into the world of the musicians.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this footage is its rarity. With Montgomery passing away in 1985, it's a privilege to witness his music being performed by someone who was clearly inspired by his legacy. The fact that Robbins was guesting with the Honeydripper Blues Band adds an extra layer of interest, as we get to see how Montgomery's music was being interpreted and reinterpreted by younger musicians.
In terms of its historical significance, this clip is a valuable addition to the archive of blues and jazz footage. It provides a unique window into the world of American roots music in the 2010s, highlighting the ongoing influence of Little Brother Montgomery's work on contemporary musicians. As such, it deserves to be cherished and shared with a wider audience.
The fact that this clip has been tagged as "Rare" only adds to its allure. It's a reminder that there are still many hidden gems waiting to be discovered in the world of music archives, and that even the most obscure footage can hold secrets and surprises for those willing to dig deeper.
Curated from public records and music databases.
