At one time, Detroit was a pulsing industrial center, surrounded by sprawling steel and automotive plants. There were jobs to be had and workers needed. As such, thousands of African Americans from the south flocked here, seeking work and a better life. And they brought along their music.

In the early 1900s, the street corners, apartment buildings and local bars were filled with the sound: Blues. It spoke of the struggles, the trials and travesties of African Americans in this land. And it was embraced. Detroit soon became a hot spot for blues, fostering the careers of such artists as John Lee Hooker, Sippie Wallace and Son House. Traces of their genius are still heard here today, in the endless stream of music that filters out of this powerfully unique city.

Artist Sampler

Alberta Adams
Johnnie Bassett
Boogie Woogie Red
John Lee Hooker
John (Bobo) Jenkins
Lightnin' Slim
Little Mack Collins
Maceo Merriweather
Bob Seeley
Son House
Sippie Wallace
Joe Weaver