About This Footage
The recently surfaced "johnnie bassett- Walk my blues away" clip is a rare gem that offers a unique glimpse into the life of Johnnie Bassett, a Detroit-based electric blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter. With a career spanning nearly eight decades, from 1935 to his passing in 2012, Bassett's contributions to the genre are multifaceted and far-reaching.
The clip itself is a five-minute and nine-second snippet that showcases Bassett's mastery of the electric guitar. As an artist who worked primarily as a session musician for years before forming his own backing band in the 1990s, this footage provides a valuable insight into his live performance style. The fact that it has been tagged as "Rare" on the platform suggests that it may have been previously unseen or underappreciated by fans and scholars alike.
Bassett's influences are well-documented, with notable mentions including Billy Butler, Tiny Grimes, Albert King, B.B. King, and T-Bone Walker. These artists not only shaped his sound but also contributed to the rich tapestry of blues music as a whole. As an artist who worked in the shadows for much of his career, Bassett's own unique voice and style have only recently begun to receive the recognition they deserve.
The clip itself is a testament to Bassett's skill as a guitarist and singer. His playing style is characterized by a smooth, expressive tone that is both deeply rooted in tradition and uniquely personal. The song "Walk My Blues Away" is likely one of his original compositions, given its distinctive melody and lyrical themes. As an artist who released seven albums during his lifetime, this clip offers a rare opportunity to hear Bassett's music outside of the confines of a studio recording.
One of the most striking aspects of this footage is its raw, unpolished quality. Unlike many modern recordings that are heavily produced and edited, "Walk My Blues Away" has a live, spontaneous feel that captures the essence of Bassett's performance style. The clip is likely an excerpt from a larger concert or gig, perhaps one that was recorded for private use or broadcast on local television.
The rarity of this footage also highlights the importance of preserving and sharing blues music history with new generations of fans. As artists like Johnnie Bassett pass into memory, their contributions to the genre are in danger of being lost forever unless efforts are made to document and share their work. This clip is a valuable addition to the archive of blues music, offering a unique window into the life and career of one of its most influential figures.
In many ways, this footage serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving blues music history. As an artist who worked in the shadows for much of his career, Johnnie Bassett's legacy is only now beginning to receive the recognition it deserves. This clip is a testament to his skill and artistry, and serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring power and beauty of blues music.
Curated from public records and music databases.
