Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1532603
e Harmonica Wizard of the Grand Ole Opry DeFord Bailey, born in Smith County, Tennessee, on Dec. 14, 1899, was an American country musician and songwriter. He was given a harmonica at the age of three during a bout with polio which le him bedridden for a year. Bailey quickly developed an exceptional and innovative playing style. He lived near a train depot and became famous for being able to mimic the powerful whistle of a locomotive. His career began in mid-September 1925 when he met a noted radio reporter named Fred "Pop" Exum in a bicycle shop. Upon hearing Bailey's unique music style, Pop featured him on his radio station WDAD. is brought Bailey to the attention of Dr. Humphrey Bate, a harmonica player and string band leader on Nashville's inuential WSM radio station. Founded by the National Life and Accident Insurance Company, WSM debuted on Oct. 5, 1925, along with its Saturday night program, the WSM Barn Dance. Dr. Bate, recognizing Bailey's talent, invited him to perform at the WSM Barn Dance. By June 1926, six months later, Bailey became a regular performer, earning the title "e Harmonica Wizard." His renditions of tunes like Fox Chase, Muscle Shoals Blues, and Pan American Blues became harmonica standards. For 15 years, he was the program's most beloved star. In 1927, the WSM Barn Dance was renamed the Grand Ole Opry. Legend has it that George D. Hay, the host, introduced Bailey aer NBC's classical music show, declaring the upcoming show would be "down to earth," compared to the preceding Grand Opera Show. Bailey performed at the Grand Ole Opry for 15 years. Unfortunately, Bailey was red by WSM in 1941 due to licensing conicts between two recording companies which prevented him from playing his most popular songs. is conict ended his performance career, and he spent the rest of his life running his own shoeshine stand and renting rooms in his home to make a living. DeFord Bailey was the rst Black Grand Ole Opry and country music star. He was also the rst musician to record in Nashville, paving the way for the city's future as the epicenter for country music. Bailey's tunes helped popularize the harmonica across the United States. e next club meeting is on Monday, March 3, at 6 pm in e Lodge Game Room. For more information, contact Jocelyn Doucette at cjs1speed@gmail.com. ~ Regina omas FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | MARCH 2025 47 African American Cultural Club