Monday, July 21, 2014

Sharing the Delta Story in Song

Some people record history with words. . . .some with photographs. . . .some with music. . . .
Johnny Cash wrote many songs from his own Delta memories. . . .So, too, writes another Mississippi County native son. . . .Joe Chipman. . . .His newest album CD ARKANSA IN ME-KEEPING IT DELTA is on sale now. . . .and look who's on the cover with him. . . .
 
Cover Photo by Dwight Booth--L to R: Joe Chipman, Bob Rothfus, Jeff Knowlton, John Holt, Dru Duncan and Dale Blaylock at the C. A. Smith Grocery located at the Widner-Magers Farm Historic District.

 Yep, that's our store. . . .It was an unusually warm January day when these photos were taken. . . .The sun was shining and there were no clouds in the sky. . . .So the guys put on their best overalls and Sunday-go-to-meeting shirts, grabbed their musical instruments, and headed our way. . . .Now, you can't get such talented musicians together without a pickin' and singin' session. . . .I'm afraid John and I weren't as talented, but they did come up with some instruments for us to play. . . .John played a washboard--I played a whiskey jug. . . .

That was such a fun day. . . .All the musicians are super gentlemen. . . .
You'll never meet a nicer bunch of people. . . .or more talented. . . .


Speaking of which, I thought you might like to learn a little more
about the song writer--the one who made it happen. . . .the talent behind it all. . . .
 


Bio by Revis Blaylock

ARKANSAS IN ME-KEEPING IT DELTA is Joe's second CD. . . .and already in demand. . . .In fact, KASU radio, 91.9 FM is currently featuring a few of Joe's songs on their Arkansas Roots program. . . .The program airs each day at noon, Monday through Friday.

 
Not only does Joe have stories to tell in song, he also has a deep passion for collecting Delta history and loves sharing it. . . .It's always a thrill when he stops by just for a chat. . . .I've learned so much from him that has helped us with the farm history. . . .and to top it off, Joe has also donated many items to our museum. . . .Just an all around nice guy. . . .a true born-in-the-Delta Southern gentleman.
 
 
 ARKANSAS IN ME and TAMING MISSISSIPPI COUNTY are sold at:
 
 
Hop on over there for information about both CDs and a list of the songs. . . .
But first, how about a sneak preview? 
 

From the Album: Taming Mississippi County
Narrative and lyrics by Joe Chipman
Vocal by Jeff Knowles