Johnson City

Johnson City: Where the Blues Got Gritty and the Country Got Swingin’

Johnson City, Tennessee, a town nestled in the Appalachian foothills, may not be the first name that pops up when you think of American music, but it’s a place that’s woven into the very fabric of some of our most iconic genres. From the blues to country, gospel to bluegrass, Johnson City has played host to a vibrant musical scene for over a century, and its history is filled with quirky characters and surprising connections.

The Ballad of the Bristol Sessions:

The story of Johnson City’s musical legacy starts with the legendary Bristol Sessions of 1927. Held just across the state line in Bristol, Virginia, these recording sessions, organized by Victor Talking Machine Company, brought together a diverse group of Appalachian musicians, many from Johnson City itself.

One of the most famous participants, Jimmie Rodgers, hailed from Meridian, Mississippi, but he spent his later years in Johnson City, even being buried there. He’s known as the “Father of Country Music,” but did you know he initially aspired to be a professional baseball player? He even played with the Johnson City Cardinals (the minor league affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals). Talk about a career change!

The Bristol Sessions also featured a young Carter Family, whose influence on country music is undeniable. They started out as a family act, including Maybelle Carter’s husband, A.P. Carter, who famously wore a beard so long it could be mistaken for a pet squirrel.

From the Mountain to the Radio:

The Bristol Sessions brought national attention to the music of the Appalachian region, and Johnson City quickly became a hub for aspiring musicians. The 1930s and 40s saw the rise of local radio stations like WJCW, which played a pivotal role in introducing the sound of Johnson City to a wider audience.

One of the most popular artists of the era was a singer named Ernest Tubb. He found fame in the 1940s with his signature hit “Walking the Floor Over You,” a tune that’s still considered a classic. Tubb was a huge personality, known for his flamboyant outfits and his habit of wearing a cowboy hat even off stage. He was so dedicated to his musical image that he even had his own custom-made hat shop in Johnson City!

Blues, Gospel, and the Next Generation:

Beyond country music, Johnson City also boasts a rich heritage in blues and gospel. During the 1950s and 60s, local clubs and churches became melting pots of musical talent.

One notable figure is the blues legend, Muddy Waters. While he was born in Mississippi, Muddy Waters spent a significant part of his career performing in Johnson City. He was known for his intense stage presence and his raspy, powerful vocals. And here’s a fun fact: Muddy Waters was also a talented harmonica player, but he preferred to use a harmonica with the reed plate removed, which gave him a distinctive, almost distorted sound.

Gospel music also thrived in Johnson City. The city became a center for recording gospel quartets, including the legendary Soul Stirrers. They were known for their electrifying performances and their powerful spiritual messages. One of their most famous members, Sam Cooke, went on to become a solo star and a pioneer of soul music.

The Legacy Continues:

Today, Johnson City continues to nurture a vibrant musical scene. From local festivals like the Blue Plum Festival to the thriving music program at East Tennessee State University, the city remains a place where musical traditions are celebrated and new sounds are explored.

While some might think of Johnson City as just a small town in the mountains, it’s truly a place where music history was made, where legends were born, and where the spirit of creativity continues to thrive. So next time you hear a country song, a blues riff, or a soulful gospel harmony, remember the grit and the heart that came from a place called Johnson City.