Original Delta Bluesman Honeyboy Edwards Passes On
David “Honeyboy” Edwards, one of the final links to the original Delta blues performers and perhaps the last of those who worked with the legendary Robert Johnson, died on August 29th at the age of 96. Born in Shaw, Mississippi, on June 28, 1915, Honeyboy taught himself to play guitar in 1929 by listening to Delta icon Tommy Johnson. Throughout his life, he performed with a literal who’s who of the blues history, interacting with the likes of Charlie Patton, Howlin’ Wolf, Sonny Boy Williamson, Peetie Wheatstraw, Muddy Waters, Little Walter, Magic Sam, and more greats too numerous to list. He was also recorded by Alan Lomax in 1942, cutting 15 sides for the Library of Congress. Honeyboy was most often seen the last couple decades performing with harmonica player Michael Frank who also is the owner of Earwig Records on which Honeyboy made his final recordings. Honeyboy was the author of a well-received autobiography titled “The World Don’t Owe Me Nothing.” It is one of the finest documentations of blues history, coming first-hand from one who experienced it. He was the recipient of two Blues Music Awards for acoustic musician and two Grammy Awards including one for Lifetime Achievement. He was a strong performer and continued touring right up to three months before he passed, cutting his touring short due to health issues and choosing retirement at the time.
A fund in Honeyboy Edwards’ name had been in the works prior to his death, coordinated by The National Blues Museum. Contributions can be made to:
Honeyboy Edwards Fund for the Blues
c/o
Robert J. Endicott, President of the Board, NBM
Bryan Cave LLP
One Metropolitan Square
211 N. Broadway, suite 3600
St. Louis, Missouri 63102
A tribute show to be held in Portland in November in honor of Honeyboy Edwards is currently being put together. Watch the BluesNotes for further information.
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