Here’s a quickie post for you guys and gals tonight featuring some of my favorite African-American ol’ time country blues musicians.

How many of you knew modern African-American banjo pickers even existed?

Well you can butter my butt and call me a biscuit, because until I saw some videos of this group I was unaware that there were contemporary African-American musicians not only making this type of music – but making it popular.

I’ve known about the theory of the banjo originating in Africa for some time now, and about enslaved Africans playing the banjo on plantations across the South. I even publicized a gathering of black banjo pickers some years ago in an old issue of the North Carolina All City Times.

But to find out the recent African-American banjo revival is gaining momentum is so wonderful right now, at a time when most modern music seems so stale.

After you watch the videos let’s discuss! What do you think about the African-American banjo tradition? Are you feeling this group? Do you know about other groups like this I should check out?

I’m anxious to explore forms of African-American, country, ol’ time and country blues sounds. And now without further adieu…the Carolina Chocolate Drops!

“Cornbread and Butter Beans”

“Hit ‘Em Up Style” (Not really feeling this version of Blu Cantrell’s hit but thought someone might like it.)

This blog post brought to you by my 30 Day Blogging Challenge. See you tomorrow!