W.C. Handy (1873–1958,) fully William Christopher Handy, was an American composer and musician, often called the “Father of the Blues” for popularizing blues music. His compositions blended folk traditions with structured harmonies, shaping modern American music.
Born in Florence, Alabama, he grew up in a religious household where his father discouraged secular music. Despite this, Handy pursued his passion, mastering the cornet and joining traveling minstrel shows. He later led the Knights of Pythias band, immersing himself in Southern folk music.
His breakthrough came with The Memphis Blues (1912,) among the first published blues compositions. His most famous work, St. Louis Blues (1914,) introduced syncopated rhythms and blue notes, influencing jazz and popular music. Other notable pieces include Beale Street Blues (1916) and Loveless Love (1921.)
Beyond music, Handy documented African American musical traditions, publishing Blues: An Anthology (1926,) W.C. Handy’s Collection of Negro Spirituals (1938,) and A Treasury of the Blues (1949.) His autobiography, Father of the Blues (1941,) details his life and musical journey.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by W.C. Handy
Life is something like a trumpet. If you don’t put anything in, you won’t get anything out.
—W.C. Handy
Leave a Reply