WRAG Radio Raggedy

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Snooks Eaglin -Nine Pounds Steel

PhotobucketSnooks Eaglin (300)
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Snooks Eaglin, born blind, learned his craft by listening to the radio. By the time (1950) he could be heard playing as a one-man-band in the streets of New Orleans, he had created and perfected his very own style, using his thumbnail.  
Renowned folklorist Harry Oster noticed Snooks' unique talent and recorded the album New Orleans Street Singer with the artist. Soon after that, Snooks founded his own band and from then on played the electric Blues. 
He played with such greats as Prof. Longhair and Allen Toussaint. Eric Clapton and Bonnie Raitt claim to have been inspired by him.
He was also known as the "Human Jukebox" because of the enormous repertoire of tunes from various genres he commanded. 
In February 2009, Snooks Eaglin, a true Blues legend, died of a heart attack at age 72.
May his soul rest in peace.

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