Conclamo Ludus

Conclamo Ludus News: RIP RL

For Conclamo Ludus blues music has been its backbone since its inception. One of the earliest modern blues artist to wield his influence over us was RL Burnside, an old Mississippi artist who had spent his life living the blues before he was known for singing the blues.

Robert Lee Burnside died September 1st 2005. RL's life plays out like a one long blues ballad. From his life as a sharecropper in the 1930's to the tragedies that would lead him to lose 2 uncles, 2 brothers, and his father in violent incidents all within a year of eachother. RL has later spent some time in prison for shooting a man during a craps game.

It wasn't until he was about 65 years old that RL finally became recognized for his blues prowess. He was picked up by the Fat Possum record label who experimented with a blues-techno fusion that became popular among music fans that may never have turned to the blues. One of his songs made it onto the Soprano's soundtrack.

While Burnside's blues-techno experiments were bold and cutting edge, it was his live sound that was the most electrifying. If you have never bought an RL album before pick up Burnside on Burnside. It was recorded live a couple of years ago on his west coast tour. Along with The Black Keys and the North Mississippi All-Stars it is amongst the greatest modern blues albums in recent years.

RL died at 78 years old, one of the last legends in the dying genre that birthed modern music as we know it. As he declares in his 2000 album "Wish I was in heaven sittin' down," he has been fulfilled.

For more on RL Burnside check out his site at Fat Possum Records and read this excellent obituary from the la times. Thanks to our Dead Bluesman Correspondent Domino Brooks for breaking the story to me.

Its Bad You Know?
Porter Langley

posted by Andre Beaumont @ 9/09/2005 05:33:00 AM