The Founders of Bentonia Blues

Historical Overview: The Bentonia School of blues is a distinct sub-genre of Mississippi Delta music, characterized by haunting falsetto vocals and specialized E-minor "cross-note" tunings. This tradition was pioneered by Henry Stuckey and solidified by the world-renowned Skip James.
Portrait of Henry Stuckey, founder of the Bentonia Blues style

Henry Stuckey

"The Father of Bentonia Blues"

Often cited as the primary source of the Bentonia sound, Stuckey claimed to have acquired the unique E-minor tuning from Caribbean soldiers during WWI. His mentorship of Skip James and Jack Owens created the blueprint for this haunting Delta tradition.

Skip James, legendary Delta Blues musician from Bentonia

Skip James

"The Architect"

The most famous exponent of the style, his 1931 recordings are cornerstones of American Blues history. His complex fingerpicking and high-pitched falsetto defined the "eerie" quality of the Bentonia school.

Jack Owens

"The Preservationist"

While the world changed, Jack Owens stayed in Mississippi to keep the Bentonia fire burning. Experience our definitive archive of his raw field recordings and rare footage.

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Jimmy Duck Holmes, Grammy-nominated Bentonia Blues artist

Jimmy "Duck" Holmes

"The Last Living Link"

As the owner of the historic Blue Front Cafe, Holmes is the modern torchbearer. He learned the authentic Bentonia style directly from Jack Owens, ensuring the tradition remains alive in the 21st century.

The Next Generation

"Who's Next?"

Explore how the minor-key tunings of Bentonia have influenced artists globally. Witness the future of the Delta sound.

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