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Blues Music: Iconic Instruments, Images, and Sounds

One of the most influential styles of American music, the Blues is a living tradition with multiple regional styles. Have a listen with the Sounds of the American Blues and The Roots of Rhythm & Blues playlists from Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, and explore our blues-related collection items.


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Suit Jacket worn by Bobby Rush

Emory Guitar played by Mississippi John Hurt at the 1963 Newport Folk Festival

29c Robert Johnson single

Stratocaster Electric Guitar

29c Muddy Waters single

Blues Cruise

29c "Ma" Rainey single

Harmonica owned by Big Mama Thornton

Gelatin silver print of Lil Green, Queen of The Blues

Hohner Blues Harp Harmonica, played by Bobby Rush

Bobby "Blue" Bland

Mo' Better Blues

29c Bessie Smith single

Junior Wells

29c Howlin' Wolf single

Albert King / Mott the Hoople / Freddie King

Ray Charles

Sugar Blues

Good Morning ng Blues; How Long

32c Sonny Terry single

Royalty Agreement for "Walking Blues"

32c Josh White single

Tuxedo jacket designed by Sy Devore and worn by Nat King Cole in St. Louis Blues

Saint Louis Blues

1981 Marin County Blues Festival

Oh Daddy Blues [sheet music]

Barbecue Blues Bust

Blues

House of Blues Button

Rosco Gordon & The Blues Blizzard

Otis Rush & His Chicago Blues Band / Grateful Dead / The Canned Heat Blues Band

Mamie Smith sings the 'Crazy Blues'

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