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Lot #932
W. C. Handy

The origin of ‘Memphis Blues’: “the big Bassoon that seconded the trombones croon and moaned just like a sinner on revival day”

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Description

The origin of ‘Memphis Blues’: “the big Bassoon that seconded the trombones croon and moaned just like a sinner on revival day”

TLS, one page, 8 x 10.5, Handy Brothers Music Co., Inc. letterhead, December 6, 1955. In part: “Many thanks for the opportunity to set you right on the date of the first playing of what is now known as The Memphis Blues. I wrote this music and called in Mr. Crump for his political campaign in 1909 and after he was elected, I changed the title to Memphis Blues and published it instrumental in 1912, then sold it to Theron C. Bennett and he had George Norton to write words about ‘Handy and his band’ with the big Bassoon that seconded the trombones croon and moaned just like a sinner on revival day…A few years back I edited a book called A Treasury of Blues and put in it the original words and music of Mr. Crump, calling it The Memphis Blues, but carrying the words of Mr. Crump as we sang them.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered toning, and show-through from tape on reverse. A wonderful and revealing letter setting the record straight. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Rare Manuscript, Document & Autograph
  • Dates: #421 - Ended January 15, 2014





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
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