Lightnin’ Hopkins

Lightnin' Hopkins, a Texas country bluesman, maintained his mournful Lone Star sound throughout his extensive career that spanned from the 1920s to the 1980s. Known for his nimble guitar skills and improvisational lyricism, Hopkins became a beloved blues troubadour. He rose to fame after being discovered by talent scout Lola Anne Cullum in 1946 and recorded prolifically for various labels, showcasing his evocative Texas blues rooted in an earlier era.

Rediscovered in 1959 by folklorist Mack McCormick and presented as a folk-blues artist, Lightnin' Hopkins transitioned from playing back-alley gin joints to collegiate coffeehouses and international tours. His recording career saw a resurgence with albums on multiple labels, including World Pacific, Vee-Jay, and Bluesville. Hopkins' unique style, demanding full payment before recording and preferring single takes, set him apart as a singular country blues figure who left a lasting impact on the genre.