Jimmy Reed Research Paper

The post-World War II era saw the rise of blues musician and song-writer Jimmy Reed, born Mathis James Reed on a plantation in Dunleith, Mississippi on September 6, 1925. He developed an early understanding of the harmonica and guitar from his close friend Eddie Taylor but never progressed much beyond the fundamentals. They sang together in churches and retained their friendship throughout their careers, as it was Eddie who was responsible for bringing Jimmy’s career to its peak of success. His distinctive yet simple style was easily imitated and therefore resonated with the mainstream audience. His trademark delivery was lazy and downtempo, contrasted by the sharp harmonica bursts and stable guitar loops. His music had a major impact on the contemporary production due to its wider reach, rock and roll artists who followed were especially influenced, such as Elvis Presley, Charlie Rich, Lou Rawls, Hank Williams, Jr., and the Rolling Stones. He made use of the harmonica in limited settings but was easily recognized and seen with a guitar on hand and harmonica attached around his neck with a neck-rack. His sound fitted the This visual was common on his album …show more content…
Because of his military service, he did not have a lot of time to hone his skills. He returned to Mississippi after being discharged in 1945 and married Mary “Mama” Reed, who would become his support system during his wild years in the later part of his career. Although she was never credited, she provided background vocals to many of his notable hits, including “Baby What Do You Want Me To Do”, and “Bright Lights, Big City.” They moved to Gary, Indiana after their marriage and Jimmy contacted Eddie who had also moved up north to find work. Jimmy worked regularly at a meatpacking plant but was more intent on breaking into the emerging blues scene around Gary and neighboring